Open-to-Buy & Merch Planning Analyst

Shoe Palace; United States; On-site; USD 64,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k

SP discount

Job summary

Shoe Palace is seeking an Associate Planner to turn data into strategy, joining a planning team that drives merchandising, financial planning, inventory management, and business analysis. You’ll partner with Buying to develop plans, monitor performance, and help drive profitable decisions across the business.

This role involves open-to-buy management, pre-season planning, in-season analyses, and collaboration to optimize inventory levels while supporting growth and core programs.

Qualifications

• BS or BA degree required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in planning, merchandising, inventory management, or related area preferred.
• Internship or coursework in retail planning or merchandising is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to deal with ambiguity.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel; strong data analysis exposure.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and managing departmental financial plans to support merchandising strategies.
• Collaborate with buying teams to create style and category strategies aligned with financial objectives.
• Monitor performance and recommend changes to enhance profitability and productivity.
• Manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) at department/category level with monthly leadership presentations.
• Develop pre-season financial plans and in-season analyses for style/category ownership.
• Develop entrance/exit strategies for new, seasonal and core programs.
• Monitor inventory levels and align with sales forecasts and merchandising strategies.
• Prepare reports and analyses to inform decision-making for the team and management.
• Create and manage weekly sales, inventory, and receipt plans for core styles.

Skills

Analytical skills

Excel

Data analysis tools

Communication

Collaboration

Education

BS or BA degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Shoe Palace is seeking an Associate Planner to turn data into strategy, joining a planning team that drives merchandising, financial planning, inventory management, and business analysis. You’ll partner with Buying to develop plans, monitor performance, and help drive profitable decisions across the business.

This role involves open-to-buy management, pre-season planning, in-season analyses, and collaboration to optimize inventory levels while supporting growth and core programs.