Hybrid Associate Merchandise Planner: Inventory & Analytics

Hot-Topic-d1d78d2; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 67,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Hot-Topic-d1d78d2 is seeking an Associate Merchandise Planner to drive inventory efficiency and sales performance. You will work cross-functionally to optimize stock levels, analyze trends, and contribute to business growth.

This role operates on a hybrid schedule and will require to work from our HQ located in the City of Industry, CA, three days a week. The ideal candidate has 1–2 years in retail planning, a Bachelor’s degree, strong Excel skills, and a data-driven mindset.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field preferred.
• 1–2 years of experience in retail planning or inventory management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset.
• Proficiency in Excel and an understanding of data analysis.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Monitor sales and inventory levels to support business goals.
• Analyze product performance and customer demand to optimize assortment.
• Manage and maintain the open-to-buy process, providing recommendations to align sales, margin, and inventory goals.
• Leverage KPIs such as sales, margin, and sell-through to highlight opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Work closely with buying and marketing teams on planning promotional strategy.
• Use analytics tools to generate insights and assist with reporting.
• Evaluate competitive retail trends and translate insights into actionable recommendations for assortment and pricing strategies.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Excel

Communication

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Finance or related field

Tools

VBA

AI tools

Excel (Advanced)

Job description

Hot-Topic-d1d78d2 is seeking an Associate Merchandise Planner to drive inventory efficiency and sales performance. You will work cross-functionally to optimize stock levels, analyze trends, and contribute to business growth.

This role operates on a hybrid schedule and will require to work from our HQ located in the City of Industry, CA, three days a week. The ideal candidate has 1–2 years in retail planning, a Bachelor’s degree, strong Excel skills, and a data-driven mindset.