MERCHANDISE PLANNING DIRECTOR

The Planning Director will be responsible for financial management of an assigned area of responsibility, which includes the creation of financial and merchandise plans, actualization of results, and identifying, communicating, and implementing strategic business opportunities at the division, category, and season code levels. This position will forecast sales, markdowns, and inventory levels on a regular basis and identify risks to the business and develop action plans in cooperation with merchandising partners to mitigate risks. Responsibilities: Key Accountabilities: Create monthly financial plans at division, category, and season code levels for fiscal time periods Reforecast sales, markdown, and inventory for fiscal time periods at each level Establish financial targets at the division, category, and season code levels for merchandise buy periods Create assortment plans at style and color levels for merchandise buy periods Manage and review daily, monthly, quarterly, and seasonal sales reporting Develop team to utilize historical data and current trends, to capitalize on new opportunities and identify risks Manage seasonal liabilities and delivery performance at a divisional level Review Planners’ 90 day forecasts with a focus on maximizing profit, optimizing inventory, and managing risk across divisions Participate in buy review with merchants, Planners, and Distribution Analysts to ensure appropriate breadth and depth and flawless execution Work with GVP and lead merchants to ensure that plans support product goals Facilitate buy finalization meeting with merchant Gain consensus on assortment and plan from senior management Ensure all planning activities support annual business and financial objectives Train, develop, and manage direct reports; offer consistent and timely feedback to direct reports Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree; Master’s degree preferred 7+ years of experience Skills and Behaviors Ability to develop and recommend strategies Ability to drive business  to meet and exceed company objectives Strong supervisory and leadership skills Excellent forecasting abilities Strong negotiation and influencing skills Knowledge of planning and allocation systems Strong project management skills Excellent verbal and written communication skills Highly proficient in Microsoft Office