Assistant Planner - Backstage

Macy's; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off

Eight paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Macy's Backstage is seeking an Assistant Planner to own day-to-day allocation and support the planning team in managing location inventory, driving sales, turn, and margins. You will analyze trends, adjust receipts, and collaborate across departments to optimize merchandise decisions.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, at least one year in merchandising/analytics, and strong Excel skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in merchandising or a related field.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in merchandise planning, allocation, merchandising, financial planning, strategy, or business analytics.
• Strong Excel skills and data-driven decision making.
• Ability to communicate effectively across teams.
• Flexible schedule and collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute inventory and assortment plans by location to support sales and margins.
• Monitor inventory levels and timely allocate receipts to meet customer demand.
• Analyze sales data to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
• Prepare regular reports on sales performance and inventory metrics.
• Provide insights to improve product assortment and maximize sales.
• Support pre-season plans and in-season forecasts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and maintain planning tools.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Organization

Project Management

Communication Skills

Initiative and Problem-Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Innovative Thinking

Relationship Building

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

1 year of experience in merchandising/analytics

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Be part of an amazing story

Macy’s is more than just a store. We’re a story. One that’s captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years. A story about innovations and traditions…about inspiring stores and irresistible products…about the excitement of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We’ve been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues. Those stories are part of what makes this such a special place to work.

Job Overview

The Assistant Planner, Macy’s Backstage owns the day-to-day execution of allocation and supports the planning team in managing location inventory levels and driving allocation to achieve sales, turn, and margin results. This role involves detailed analysis of sales trends, inventory levels, and market conditions to assist in developing effective merchandise strategies. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, a passion for retail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.

What You Will Do

• Assist in developing and executing inventory and assortment plans that support sales and margin objectives by location.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure timely allocation of receipts to meet customer demand.
• Conduct detailed analysis of sales data to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
• Prepare regular reports on sales performance, inventory levels, and key metrics.
• Provide insights and recommendations to improve product assortment and maximize sales.
• Support the Merchandise Planner in creating accurate pre-season plans and in-season sales and inventory forecasts.
• Communicate effectively with cross-functional team members at various levels.
• Maintain and update planning tools and systems to ensure data accuracy.
• Utilize planning software to analyze data and generate reports.
• Develop a solid understanding of the open-to-buy process and present results, strategies, and forecasts to the broader team as necessary.
• Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities

Skills You Will Need

Analytical Skills: Strong technical aptitude, including advanced competency in Microsoft Excel and the ability to quickly master new applications and systems.

Organization and Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and the ability to develop and maintain efficient systems of organization.

Project Management: Proficient in project and process management, capable of effectively managing workload, priorities, and timelines.

Communication Skills: Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to think analytically and pragmatically and effectively communicate with cross-functional teams and executives.

Initiative and Problem-Solving: Self-starter with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to take initiative.

Interpersonal Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, fostering effective collaboration and teamwork. A true team player.

Innovative Thinking: Willingness to innovate and continuously seek out new data sources to enhance insights.

Relationship Building: Ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with senior and mid-level management across various teams.

Who You Are

• Candidates with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field are encouraged to apply. Minimum 1 year of experience in merchandise planning, allocation, merchandising, financial planning, strategy, or business analytics.
• This role involves performing essential job functions such as communication, collaboration, and use of office and computer systems. Responsibilities include the ability to access and review written and electronic information, and to move within the work environment and interact with workplace materials as needed to carry out job responsibilities.
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs.

What We Can Offer You

Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our volunteer opportunities.

Some Additional Benefits We Offer Include

• Merchandise discounts
• Performance-based incentives
• Annual merit review
• Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice
• Tuition reimbursement

Access the full menu of benefits offerings here.

About Us

This is a great time to join Macy’s! Whether you’re helping a customer find the perfect gift, streamlining operations in one of our distribution centers, enhancing our online shopping experience, buying in-style and on-trend merchandise to outfit our customers, or designing a balloon for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, we offer unique opportunities to be part of some of the most memorable moments in people’s lives.

Macy's, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

This position may be eligible for performance-based incentives/bonuses. Benefits include 401k, medical/vision/dental/life/disability insurance options, PTO accruals, Holidays, and more. Eligibility requirements may apply based on location, job level, classification, and length of employment. Additional benefit details are available at macysJOBS.com.