Senior Merchandise Planner & Allocation Strategist (Hybrid)

Crate and Barrel; Northbrook, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Crate and Barrel in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Senior Planner to lead Allocation Analysts and own the inventory and financial forecast for a product category. The role blends planning and allocation management to drive profitable sales and customer satisfaction.

The position is on-site in Northbrook with the flexibility to work remotely on Fridays, supporting collaboration with Merchandising and Buyers to optimize assortment and markdown strategies.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years in merchandising, planning, buying or equivalent experience preferred.
• Strong financial acumen and ability to present data clearly.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the allocation strategy for the assigned product category.
• Coach Allocation Analysts to support planning foundations.
• Manage inventory strategy including new buys, reorders and markdowns.
• Develop pre-season plans in coordination with department targets.
• Forecast sales, margin and inventory at a category level with trend changes.
• Lead monthly business review (OTB) to optimize sales and gross margin.
• Collaborate with Buyers on assortment planning and promotional strategies.
• Drive item planning and forecasting for ordering, allocation and cross-functional needs.
• Foster collaboration within Merchandising to enhance customer experience.

Skills

Financial analysis

Data presentation

Team leadership

Merchandising knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics or related field

Job description

Crate and Barrel in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Senior Planner to lead Allocation Analysts and own the inventory and financial forecast for a product category. The role blends planning and allocation management to drive profitable sales and customer satisfaction.

The position is on-site in Northbrook with the flexibility to work remotely on Fridays, supporting collaboration with Merchandising and Buyers to optimize assortment and markdown strategies.