Hybrid Merchandise Planner - Optimize Inventory & Growth

Hot Topic, Inc.; California; Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Hot Topic, Inc. is seeking an Associate Merchandise Planner to drive inventory efficiency and sales performance. This role will work cross-functionally to optimize stock levels, analyze trends, and support business growth from our HQ in City of Industry, CA. The position offers a hybrid schedule three days a week.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in retail planning with strong analytical skills, Excel proficiency, and collaboration abilities. VBA/AI experience is a plus but not required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a 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.

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 ensure alignment of sales, margin, and inventory goals.
• Leverage KPIs such as sales, margin, and sell-through to proactively highlight opportunities, mitigate risks, and influence proper inventory levels.
• Work closely with buying and marketing teams when 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 mindset

Excel proficiency

Data analysis

Communication skills

Collaboration

Organizational skills

Fast-paced environment

VBA/AI experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Excel

Job description

Hot Topic, Inc. is seeking an Associate Merchandise Planner to drive inventory efficiency and sales performance. This role will work cross-functionally to optimize stock levels, analyze trends, and support business growth from our HQ in City of Industry, CA. The position offers a hybrid schedule three days a week.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in retail planning with strong analytical skills, Excel proficiency, and collaboration abilities. VBA/AI experience is a plus but not required.