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Associate Merchandise Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Crate and Barrel

Associate Planner

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

... Planning Manager and merchandising team on designing and implementing thoughtful inventory and ... Associate Planner... * Manage inventory strategy for product category including new product buys ...

New

Nautica

Store Manager

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$47K/yr

Overview tore Manager Our Store Managers are responsible for building a team of top performers ... Associate merchandise discount across all Catalyst Brands All associates are eligible for an ...

Dollartree

Merchandising Manager

Hanover Park, IL · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

As a Merchandise Assistant Manager at Dollar Tree, you'll join our Store Manager in leading a dynamic team of associates and creating positive experiences for the communities we serve. In this role ...

Dollar Tree

Merchandising Manager

Hanover Park, IL · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

As a Merchandise Assistant Manager at Dollar Tree, you'll join our Store Manager in leading a dynamic team of associates and creating positive experiences for the communities we serve. In this role ...

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Associate Merchandise Manager information

What does an associate merchandise manager do?

An Associate Merchandise Manager assists in planning, selecting, and purchasing products for retail stores or online platforms. They analyze sales trends, work with vendors, help develop pricing strategies, and ensure that merchandise aligns with the company's goals and customer preferences. This role often involves collaborating with marketing, inventory, and sales teams to optimize product assortments and maximize profitability. Associate Merchandise Managers also monitor inventory levels and help execute promotional strategies to drive sales.

How does an associate merchandise manager typically collaborate with buyers and planners to develop effective product assortments?

As an Associate Merchandise Manager, you will regularly work with buyers to analyze sales data, review market trends, and identify opportunities for new products or adjustments to existing assortments. Collaboration with planners is essential for managing inventory levels, ensuring that merchandise aligns with financial targets and promotional calendars. This role requires strong communication and analytical skills, as you'll be part of cross-functional meetings, providing input to optimize the merchandise mix and drive sales growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate merchandise manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Merchandise Manager, you need strong analytical skills, an understanding of retail math, and a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Proficiency with inventory management systems, Excel, and merchandising planning software is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, and negotiation skills help you collaborate across teams and manage vendor relationships effectively. These competencies are essential for optimizing product assortments, driving sales, and ensuring smooth merchandising operations.

What is the difference between Associate Merchandise Manager vs Merchandise Planner?

AspectAssociate Merchandise ManagerMerchandise Planner
Primary FocusAssists in product selection, inventory management, and sales strategiesForecasts sales, plans inventory levels, and manages stock flow
Required SkillsProduct knowledge, communication, basic analyticsData analysis, forecasting, inventory optimization
Work EnvironmentRetail or e-commerce companies, team collaborationPlanning departments, cross-functional teams
Common CertificationsMerchandising, retail managementSupply chain, inventory management certifications

The Associate Merchandise Manager and Merchandise Planner roles both operate within retail and merchandising environments, often collaborating closely. While the Associate Merchandise Manager focuses on product selection and sales support, the Merchandise Planner specializes in sales forecasting and inventory planning. Both roles require analytical skills and industry knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ, making them complementary positions within retail teams.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Merchandise Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Merchandise Manager job openings:

Associate Merchandise Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Associate Planner

Crate and Barrel

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Crate & Barrel rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 63 rated furniture retailers

Job description

The Associate Planner is responsible for the inventory strategy and financial forecasts for their segment of the business. This role supposts the goal of maximizing company sales growth and profitability by working closely with the Divisional Planning Manager and merchandising team on designing and implementing thoughtful inventory and merchandise strategies that promote profitable sales growth and satisfy customer demand.

This is an on-site position (Monday through Thursday) based out of our Northbrook, IL office with the flexibility to work remotely on Fridays.

A day in the life as an Associate Planner...
  • Manage inventory strategy for product category including new product buys, reorders and markdowns
  • Develop pre-season plans in coordination with department and company targets
  • In collaboration with Buyers, forecast sales, margin and inventory at a category level based on changes in trend, strategy or business climate
  • Lead monthly business review (OTB) to determine actions that will optimize sales and gross margin
  • Develop and provide appropriate business analysis to influence future purchases and assortment strategies
  • Build strong cross-functional partnerships with Allocation, Merchandising, Sourcing, Supply Chain, and vendors to enable successful business strategies and flawless execution
  • Drive item planning and forecasting for ordering, allocation and cross-functional needs
  • Foster a collaborative work environment within the Merchandising Department focused on distinctive product and an engaged customer experience
  • Manage category planning operations, including critical deadlines, coding, hunt paths and product lead-times
What you’ll bring to the table…
  • Strong financial acumen and experience analyzing data
  • Proficiency with spreadsheets and planning tools
  • Proven ability to work with attention to detail and accuracy
We’d love to hear from you if you have…
  • 2+ years experience in merchandising, planning/allocation, buying or equivalent area
  • Experience with inventory management, IT systems, product pipeline process design, and promotional strategies
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What Crate & Barrel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Crate & Barrel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Crate & Barrel operates in the retail industry, particularly in home furniture, accessories, and related services. Founded in 1962 by Gordon and Carole Segal in Chicago, Illinois, the company is now headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois and has become a leading home furnishings destination in the United States. With products including furniture, housewares, décor, kitchenware and much more, Crate & Barrel caters to an audience looking for modern, stylish home products. The company prides itself on its curated, globally sourced, and high-quality offerings. Its core mission is to help people love how they live in the moments that matter.

Industry

Retail

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Northbrook, IL, US

Year founded

1962

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