Merchandise Planning Manager

The Merchandise Planning Manager will play a critical role in ensuring optimal inventory levels and efficient merchandise allocation to maximize sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction. This position requires a strong analytical mindset, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders.

Key Result Areas

Time Utilization

1. Business Analysis and Promotional Management: 60%
2. Merchandise Strategy and Execution: 30%
3. Inventory Operations and Maintenance: 10%

Total Time Utilization 100%

Education/Experience:

• 5-8 years in merchandise planning, inventory management, or related roles within the consumer goods industry, preferably in the toy sector.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

Skills/Knowledge/Ability: 

• Knowledge in Target's business systems and procedures – POL, VIQ/Greenfield, IMN is preferred. 
• Strong analytical skills with a keen ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
• Proficiency in using merchandise planning software, data analysis tools, and Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with both internal and external teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing business needs in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy and precision in forecasting and inventory management.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities, with a results-driven approach.
• Knowledge of retail operations, supply chain management, and market trends in the toy industry.

Authority:

• Reports to Director of Sales 

Key Result Areas and Activities

Business Analysis

• Collaborate with Target partners to understand their inventory needs, sales trends, and promotional strategies.
• Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and seasonal patterns to forecast demand accurately.
• Manage inventory forecasts, taking into consideration factors such as product lifecycles, market trends, and promotional events.
• Provide regular reports and insights to internal and external stakeholders regarding sales performance, inventory levels, and merchandise strategies.
• Work with internal partners to solve inventory availability issues.

Merchandise/Promotional Strategy and Execution

• Develop and execute merchandise planning strategies that align with both MGA’s company's goals and Target's objectives.
• Monitor inventory levels and sales performance, making real-time adjustments as necessary to optimize sell-through and inventory turnover.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements in merchandise planning and inventory management, striving for operational excellence.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, and product development, to share insights and align merchandise strategies.

Relationship Management

• Foster a strong working relationship with Target key contacts and communicate with them on a weekly basis.
• Work closely with internal partners to ensure timely and efficient product replenishment, minimizing stock outs and overstock situations.
• Support in any project assigned by Team Lead.

Other duties as assigned