Merchandise Planner - WSS

This hybrid position will be located at our WSS office. Expectations for hybrid in-office schedule is three days a week, typically Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

The Merchandise Planner is responsible for developing and maintaining strategic plans by brand or category that drive sales for a particular area of the business.  By partnering with the Buyer, producing meaningful analysis, and accurately forecasting, the Merchandise Planner’s goal is to maximize opportunities and minimize risks.  In addition, the Merchandise Planner will lead special projects and mentor junior teammates in the department.

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ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and communicate pre-season sales, stock, and margin plans by brand or category based on historical data and current trends that support total company objectives.
• Manage area OTB to maintain appropriate stock levels, capitalize on emerging sales trends, and guide receipt flow to ensure volume driving product is received in timely manner.
• Re-forecast (sales, margin, and turn) OTB on a weekly basis and conduct weekly meetings with buyers and allocators to discuss current business and plans of action as a team.
• Manage Ladder Plans for key items within area of responsibility to ensure appropriate stock levels are met throughout the year.
• Leverage Business Intelligence tools to develop relevant reporting and meaningful ad-hoc analysis to support buying team during pre-season and in-season time periods.
• Analyze size selling by market in order to determine appropriate size runs for orders shipped to distribution center.
• Present category performance and go-forward strategies to management and entire Merchandising department with concise recaps and sound action plans.
• Partner with Buyer and develop seasonal business plans that lay groundwork to achieve plan results through identifying growth, maintain, and down-trending brands or categories.
• Use experience and creativity to address business issues or opportunities; recommend thorough plans of action.
• Work closely with Buyers and Allocators to react to any opportunities or risks uncovered at the store level.
• Take ownership of special projects and relay conclusions or strategies to management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 5 years retail planning experience.
• High School diploma or equivalent required; 4-year college degree (bachelor’s degree) school is preferred.
• Strong computer skills; particularly Excel and Word.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:

• Must be comfortable leading presentations and meetings pertaining to area of responsibility.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to lead.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

• Strong Retail Math knowledge is a must. Candidate must understand all elements of OTB, as well as calculations for all metrics (sell-through, turnover, margin, AUR, etc.)

REASONING ABILITY:

• Ability to define problems and recommend plans of action using factual information.
• Strong analytical skills

OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES:

• Ability to remain flexible, prioritize, and respond to changing requests from management and cross functional team.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of staff and management.
• Be an independent and self-motivated team player.

At Foot Locker, we value innovation, authenticity, and integrity in all that we do.  To uphold the security and fairness of our hiring process, we ask that candidates refrain from using AI tools, including ChatGPT, during interviews and assessments.  To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please review the following guidelines:

• Cameras must be on for all virtual interviews.
• AI tools are strictly prohibited during interviews or assessments.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work together to create a transparent and equitable hiring experience.

The annual base salary range is $80,000 – $100,000 / year. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the salary for this position. Salary will be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data. Salary is one component of the Foot Locker, Inc. total compensation package, which includes the below.

• Paid Time Off, Paid Parental Leave
• Life, Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage – Individual and Family Plans
• Self-Development & Recognition Programs
• Advancement Opportunities
• 401k Retirement Plan and HSA Contributions
• 30%-50% Employee Discount - Friend & Family Events
• Community Engagement Opportunities

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

This is a hybrid position with in‑office work on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday in our Gardena, CA office.

ABOUT WSS:

WSS is the premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores. Consumers trust WSS for the best brands, greatest values and largest selection of athletic, dress, fashion, and casual footwear for the entire family.  Our large store format enables us to showcase thousands of styles from top brands like Nike, Jordan, Vans, Converse, Adidas, Puma, Skechers, etc. In addition, WSS carries high quality private brands augmenting the breadth of selection to deliver amazing value to our customers.

Founded in Southern California in 1984 by entrepreneur Eric Alon, all WSS stores feature a unique retail format that displays every style and size. This allows customers to browse on their terms, in a hassle-free environment, engaging the friendly and knowledgeable sales staff when they choose. The success of this business model has allowed WSS to continue its rapid expansion into new markets.

WSS is committed to giving back to the communities we serve, sponsoring or participating in over 350 local events each year.  Stay connected to us via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and at www.shopwss.com.