Planner - Planning & Allocation

We are seeking a dynamic Planner to develop and execute seasonal plans that support Ashley Stewart’s financial goals. You will work closely with the Buying team to manage preseason plans, in season reprojections, markdowns and promotional strategies. You will also provide in depth analysis and make recommendations to maximize business opportunities. To achieve success in this role, the Planner must be a team player, highly organized and demonstrate proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build financial sales, gross margin, and inventory plans, at class level, on a seasonal/weekly basis.
• Reforecast in-season business based on current trend.  
• Present revised projections and recommendations to cross functional partners and senior leadership.
• Create a seasonal road map based on financial targets and retail analysis to consider Category Penetration planning, style and SKU count direction, Gross margin implications and replenishment needs.
• Strategize, develop, and present seasonal key item plans that support sales and GM goals.
• Create preseason, in season and post season analysis to target sales risks and opportunities.
• Monitor promotional effectiveness and propose future recommendations.
• Maintain Open to Buy.
• Identify and communicate potential inventory liabilities or opportunities.  
• Consistently work with the cross functional team toward producing results.

Core Experience:

• B.S. degree preferred
• 5 years of retail planning/financial analysis experience
• Ecommerce planning experience is a PLUS
• Strong expertise in Excel (pivot tables, V-lookups) and Access
• Results driven; strategic, conceptual, and innovative thinker
• Retail math concepts, applications and statistical analysis
• Detail-oriented, with excellent follow-through skills
• Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
• Ability to work productively in a team environment
• Excellent organization and multi-tasking skills