Merchandise Planner

About the Role

Catbird NYC is seeking a Merchandise Planner to join our team in Brooklyn, NY. This full-time position focuses on overseeing sales and inventory planning for our expanding jewelry assortment. The role combines data analysis with creative strategic input, requiring collaboration across merchandising, retail, finance, and operations to ensure optimal product availability in the right locations at the right times.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze sales data, stock status, margins, and other vital metrics to manage end-to-end merchandise planning including sales forecasts and stock targets by SKU, style, product category, and location.
• Create and oversee Open-to-Buy (OTB) plans, adjusting purchasing strategies based on performance metrics and market trends.
• Prepare comprehensive reports to advise on assortment changes, identify product or category opportunities, and highlight potential liabilities.
• Determine location-specific SKU minimums and evaluate stock transfer efficiencies to optimize inventory allocation for improved sell-through, profitability, and stock management.
• Monitor key performance indicators such as revenue, profits, inventory turnover, and sell-through rates to detect risks and growth opportunities.
• Manage and mentor assistants and coordinators within the department, ensuring task completion and taking part in key projects and initiatives across teams.
• Represent the Merchandising department in cross-functional collaborations.

Candidate Profile

• Possesses 4 to 6 years of merchandise planning experience, preferably in multi-channel environments focused on jewelry or accessories.
• Quick to adapt and proficient in learning new software platforms and systems.
• Highly skilled in analytical thinking, problem-solving, Excel, ERP systems, and retail mathematics.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities with excellent attention to detail.
• Flexible, able to multitask effectively, prioritize responsibilities for self and team, and respond effectively to changing environments.
• Demonstrates a strong sense of ownership, urgency, and reliability.
• A collaborative team member with a positive, respectful, and supportive attitude.
• Prepared to work overtime when required.
• Thrives in a dynamic, startup-like atmosphere characterized by resourcefulness and adaptability, willing to embrace multiple responsibilities as the position evolves.