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Merchandise Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Merchandise Planning

Bangor, ME · On-site

$128K - $163K/yr

YOU WILL BE The Manager, Merchandise Planning is the strategic leader for their category, owning the full omni-channel P&L and inventory efficiency. They are responsible for driving Pre-Season and In ...

AKIRA Merchandise Planning Manager In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ stores across the United ...

$128K - $163K/yr

YOU WILL BE The Manager, Merchandise Planning is the strategic leader for their category, owning the full omni-channel P&L and inventory efficiency. They are responsible for driving Pre-Season and In ...

Merchandise Planning Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

AKIRA Merchandise Planning Manager In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ stores across the United ...

The Merchandise Planning Manager leads a team of Merchandise Planners, providing coaching, development, and oversight while ensuring consistent execution of merchandise planning processes and ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Merchandise Planning Analyst Location: New York or Boston; Hybrid (2 days in the office required) Approved Salary Range: $50,000-$60,000 About the Role : As a Planning Analyst, you will utilize data ...

The Merchandise Planning Manager leads a team of Merchandise Planners, providing coaching, development, and oversight while ensuring consistent execution of merchandise planning processes and ...

Merchandise Planning Analyst Location: New York or Boston; Hybrid (2 days in the office required) Approved Salary Range: $50,000-$60,000 About the Role : As a Planning Analyst, you will utilize data ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Reporting to the Senior Director, Planning, you will partner closely with Merchandising, Buying, Supply Chain, Product Development, Wholesale, Retail, Ecommerce, and Finance to develop demand ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

Reporting to the Senior Director, Planning, you will partner closely with Merchandising, Buying, Supply Chain, Product Development, Wholesale, Retail, Ecommerce, and Finance to develop demand ...

Manager, Merchandise Planning This role will be accountable for driving profitable sales for the region, managing sales and inventory activities by setting SKU sales targets, maintaining a bottoms-up ...

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Merchandise Planning information

See salary details

$55.5K

$97.2K

$152K

How much do merchandise planning jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchandise planning in the United States is $97,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is merchandise planning?

Merchandise planning is the process used by retailers and brands to ensure that the right products are available at the right time, place, and quantity to meet customer demand while maximizing sales and minimizing markdowns. It involves forecasting sales, managing inventory, and developing buying strategies based on historical data and market trends. Effective merchandise planning helps businesses achieve financial goals, improve stock efficiency, and respond quickly to changes in consumer preferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a merchandise planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Merchandise Planner, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in forecasting, inventory management, and a background in business or related fields. Familiarity with retail planning software like Oracle Retail, SAP, or JDA, as well as advanced Excel skills, is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively with buyers, vendors, and cross-functional teams. These skills are essential to optimize inventory levels, maximize sales, and ensure profitability in a dynamic retail environment.

What are some common challenges faced in merchandise planning and how can they be addressed?

Merchandise Planning professionals often encounter challenges such as forecasting demand accurately, balancing inventory levels, and adapting to rapidly changing consumer trends. These challenges can be addressed by leveraging data analytics tools, maintaining close collaboration with buying and sales teams, and regularly reviewing sales performance to make timely adjustments. Additionally, strong communication and negotiation skills are essential for aligning stakeholders and ensuring that inventory decisions support both short-term goals and long-term business objectives.

What is the difference between Merchandise Planning vs Inventory Planning?

AspectMerchandise PlanningInventory Planning
FocusDeveloping strategies for product assortment, assortment mix, and sales forecastsManaging stock levels, replenishment, and stock turnover
ResponsibilitiesSelecting products, analyzing sales trends, and planning merchandise assortmentsMonitoring inventory levels, reducing stockouts, and optimizing stock costs
Skills & CredentialsAnalytical skills, retail industry knowledge, forecasting experienceData analysis, supply chain understanding, inventory management certifications

While both roles involve planning and analysis within retail, Merchandise Planning focuses on product assortment and sales forecasting, whereas Inventory Planning centers on stock levels and replenishment strategies. Understanding these differences helps retailers optimize both product offerings and inventory efficiency.

How to get into merchandise planning?

To enter merchandise planning, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in business, retail, or a related field, along with strong analytical skills and experience with inventory management software. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in retail or supply chain management can also be valuable. Developing skills in data analysis, forecasting, and understanding market trends is essential for success in this role.

What does a merchandise planning do?

A merchandise planner is responsible for analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory strategies to ensure the right products are available at the right time. They collaborate with buying teams and use tools like spreadsheets and inventory management software to optimize stock levels and maximize sales profitability.

What cities are hiring for Merchandise Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Merchandise Planning job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandise Planning jobs?

The most popular types of Merchandise Planning jobs are:

What states have the most Merchandise Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Merchandise Planning jobs include:

What other helpful pages are available for Merchandise Planning?

Other pages related to Merchandise Planning:

Infographic showing various Merchandise Planning job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,202 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Manager, Merchandise Planning

Bangor, ME • On-site

$128K - $163K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Salary Range $128,000 - $163,000*

WHO WE ARE

A New York landmark since 1901, Bergdorf Goodman represents the global pinnacle of style, service and modern luxury. With its rich history of showcasing leading and emerging designers, the iconic store at 5th Avenue and 58th Street—the crossroads of fashion—is a singular destination for discerning customers around the world. BG.com expands on Bergdorf Goodman's heritage, showcasing coveted collections for men and women in an unparalleled online shopping experience. Bergdorf Goodman is part of Saks Global’s portfolio of top luxury retail brands and real estate assets.

YOU WILL BE

The Manager, Merchandise Planning is the strategic leader for their category, owning the full omni-channel P&L and inventory efficiency. They are responsible for driving Pre-Season and In-Season financial plans and forecasts for multiple divisions/groups of the BG business at the vendor/category/classification level. The MMP is responsible for developing and presenting thoughtful financial plans and forecasts that align to the merchandise strategy to maximize sales, profit, and inventory. The MMP will be a key stakeholder and closely partners with the DMMs, Buyers, vendors and cross-functional teammates while leveraging analytics and formulating strategies to drive business across both store and online channels. This position reports to the Director of Merchandise Planning and has one direct report. The MMP is responsible for the development and training of the Merchandise Planner on their team.

WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Develop and communicate pre-season plans and manage in-season forecasts that support divisional strategies.
  • Drive and lead the divisional partnership for the monthly OTB process, present to the senior leadership team, and synthesize data-driven recommendations for stakeholders.
  • Deliver accurate, aligned forecasts for key profit-driving metrics, including sales, markdown strategies, receipt management, and inventory balance.
  • Manage and reconcile top-down and bottom-up financial plans and projections.
  • Ensure vendor and category plans appropriately capture opportunities and liabilities by channel.
  • Oversee the strategic growth of category inventory by maximizing turnover and actively reducing markdown liabilities.
  • Manage inventory ownership and mitigate risk through financial modeling.
  • Build the full suite of seasonal and fiscal purchase plans for the business, including a comprehensive checkbook encompassing brand details by channel, delivery budgets, and class/category SKU breadth and depth targets.
  • Partner with merchants to lead brand negotiations regarding sales, purchases, inventory, and profitability.
  • Apply an entrepreneurial approach by developing or adapting financial tools to better manage division business.
  • Partner with merchants and leadership to develop product performance reporting tools.
  • Perform ad-hoc analysis and recommend courses of action to drive sales and profit.
  • Collaborate closely and build trust across cross-functional teams to drive desired results.
  • Lead and inspire teams and partners, contributing to an environment that strengthens the organization through training and development initiatives.
  • Oversee the training and professional development of Merchandise Planners.
  • Support the mentorship and professional development of merchant teams through involvement in internal training programs.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING
  • Strong leadership, management, communication, customer service, and organizational skills.
  • A sharp analytical and strategic mindset, paired with the drive to be a thoughtful decision-maker and business leader.
  • Must possess a comprehensive understanding of retail math, cost accounting, and advanced Excel skills.
  • Flexibility and strategic agility to thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment with a solution-oriented mindset.
  • Exceptional people development and team-building skills.
  • Proven process management capabilities.
  • 5-7 years of planning or merchandising experience.
  • 1-2 years of supervisory experience is preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university.
YOUR LIFE AND CAREER AT SAKS GLOBAL
  • Opportunity to work in a dynamic fast paced environment at a company experiencing growth and transformation.
  • Exposure to rewarding career advancement opportunities across the largest multi-brand luxury retailer from retail to distribution, to digital or corporate.
  • Comprehensive benefits package for all eligible full-time employees (including medical, vision and dental).
  • An amazing employee discount.
BENEFITS
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Basic life insurance
  • Supplemental life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • A variety of additional voluntary benefits (such as critical illness, hospital and accident insurance).

Exemplar Luxury Group is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.

Compensation for this role varies by geographic location. The listed range reflects multiple markets, including higher-cost areas. Actual starting pay will be determined based on work location, experience, and other job-related factors.

Exemplar Luxury Group is a world-renowned luxury ecommerce destination. The company’s unique approach combines a focus on the digital customer experience with a strong connection to a network of extraordinary stores that extends that seamless experience into the real world. On its website and app, Exemplar Luxury Group offers an unparalleled selection of curated merchandise across fashion for women and men, beauty, jewelry, home décor and more. In addition to the shopping experience, customers come to Exemplar Luxury Group for inspiring editorial content, access to digital stylists, lifestyle experiences and other world-class services. The company is currently in the midst of a dramatic expansion, driven by significant enhancements to its platforms and offerings, with the goal of becoming the preeminent destination for luxury internationally.

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