What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Merchandise Planning position at Spencer's and Spirit Halloween?
Overview
We are authentic, professional providers of fun, focused on building a Great Place To Work For All by staying true to our mission: “Life’s a Party, We’re Makin’ It Fun!” and “So Much Fun It’s Scary!”
At Spencer’s and Spirit Halloween, we do the right thing always-integrity, fairness, respect, and transparency are our foundation. You will find our culture to be inclusive, passionate, resilient, and one that values differences and embraces all.
One Team / One Goal
We are leaders and owners of our business success. Whether it’s developing new and exclusive costumes, quality testing products, or implementing technology solutions, our teams understand the value of working collaboratively to embrace change through innovation, curiosity, and thoughtfulness.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Flexible work environment
- Career advancement
- Competitive base salary
- Bonus opportunity
- Vacation, Personal, Sick and Holiday pay
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life and AD&D insurance
- 401k with a company match
- 30% merchandise discount
Responsibilities
As the Manager, Merchandise Planning for Spencer's, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our merchandise strategy and ensuring optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand. This position requires a deep understanding of merchandise planning, allocation, and inventory management, coupled with strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
- Develop and implement comprehensive merchandise plans in alignment with the company's overall business strategy
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including buying, marketing, and finance, to gather insights and incorporate them into merchandise plans
- Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and seasonal patterns to make informed decisions on assortment planning and inventory level
- Design and execute effective merchandise allocation strategies to optimize inventory distribution across stores and channels
- Monitor and adjust allocation plans based on real-time sales data, and market dynamics
- Minimize stock-outs and overstocks by implementing efficient allocation practices
- Oversee inventory levels to meet sales targets while minimizing carrying costs and obsolescence
- Work closely with vendors and the supply chain team to ensure timely and accurate product deliveries
- Implement best practices for inventory turnover and replenishment to maximize profitability
- Foster strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, including merchandising, marketing, and operations, to align merchandise plans with overall business goals
- Communicate regularly with leadership to provide updates on merchandise performance, risks, and opportunities
- Lead and inspire a team of planning and allocation professionals, providing guidance and support for their professional development
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, or related field; and/or 6 years of related experience
- Proven experience in merchandise planning, allocation, and inventory management in a retail environment
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and trends to make informed decisions
- Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant tools
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a high-performing team
