Assoc Planner, Merchandise

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Min 5%) Primary focus on learning how to build merchandise financial plans, assortment plans and completing financial analysis. Create and present Assortment Plans in accordance with the official line review schedule. Completed assortment plans will accurately reflect a balance of merchandise strategy, financial objectives, and the varying regionality of TSC's stores. Develop skills to create, analyze, maintain, and adjust Sales, Gross Margin, and Inventory Forecasts/Open to Buy. Present forecasts to management; analyze to identify trends, risks, and opportunities; provide recommendations and actions as needed. Follow up and report back on progress made on goals. Assist with forecasting and planning promotional (circular, event) items and purchases; research previous results and apply learnings to improve forecast accuracy. Develop an understanding of how to plan, measure, and implement actions to improve Seasonal Sell-thru. Facilitate and manage the In Season management process and the end of season Correction of Errors process with multiple business partners; suggest and support promotional and markdown strategies to optimize sales and margin while balancing inventory levels; document learnings and provide recommendations. Create and maintain "Key Item" plans on strategically important items. Collaborate with Merchandising on a unit sales forecast and Inventory Management on proper receipt flow. Support in the creation of the Annual Merchandising Budget with close collaboration from Merchandising and Inventory Management. Travel as needed to trade shows, vendor facilities, TSC store and DC tours, and off-site training. Required Qualifications Experience : 03 years of retail, merchandising, planning, finance, or analytical experience. Internship or co-op experience in retail planning, merchandising, or analytics preferred.

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Business, Retail, Finance, Economics, Supply Chain, or related field. Any suitable combination of education and experience will be considered.

Professional Certifications: None. Preferred knowledge, skills or abilities Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, financial acumen, attention to detail and data accuracy, ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment, strong communication and collaboration skills and ability to learn merchandise planning concepts and tools. Strong skill set in Microsoft Office, highly skilled in Excel. SAP, Business Objects, Relex or other planning/inventory management software.

Working Conditions: Normal office working conditions Physical Requirements Sitting Standing (not walking) Walking Kneeling/Stooping/Bending Lifting up to 10 pounds