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Retail Planning Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Qualifications * 7-10+ years of progressive retail merchandise planning experience (apparel/fashion ...

AKIRA Merchandise Planning Manager In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing ... Qualifications * 7-10+ years of progressive retail merchandise planning experience (apparel/fashion ...

Demand Planning Manager

Newton, MA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Demand Planning Manager Role The Demand Planner will be responsible for developing accurate ... Work with warehouse and supply chain teams to ensure optimal inventory levels to meet retailer ...

Demand Planning Manager

Newton, MA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Demand Planning Manager Role The Demand Planner will be responsible for developing accurate ... Work with warehouse and supply chain teams to ensure optimal inventory levels to meet retailer ...

... retail spaces. The Capital Planning Manager is responsible for integrating JLL data with that from ... at least two other client-contracted service providers to facilitate a seamless, data-driven ...

Demand Planning Manager

Newton, MA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Demand Planning Manager Role The Demand Planner will be responsible for developing accurate ... Work with warehouse and supply chain teams to ensure optimal inventory levels to meet retailer ...

... retail spaces. The Capital Planning Manager is responsible for integrating JLL data with that from ... at least two other client-contracted service providers to facilitate a seamless, data-driven ...

... retail spaces. The Capital Planning Manager is responsible for integrating JLL data with that from ... at least two other client-contracted service providers to facilitate a seamless, data-driven ...

... retail spaces. The Capital Planning Manager is responsible for integrating JLL data with that from ... at least two other client-contracted service providers to facilitate a seamless, data-driven ...

... retail spaces. The Capital Planning Manager is responsible for integrating JLL data with that from ... at least two other client-contracted service providers to facilitate a seamless, data-driven ...

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Retail Planning Manager information

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$59K

$67.5K

$74.5K

How much do retail planning manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for retail planning manager in the United States is $67,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Retail Planning Manager do?

A Retail Planning Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to maximize sales and profitability in retail environments. They analyze sales data, forecast demand, and ensure the right products are in the right stores at the right times. Their role involves close collaboration with buyers, merchandisers, and supply chain teams to optimize inventory levels and support promotional activities. Retail Planning Managers play a key part in minimizing stockouts and overstock situations, helping retailers achieve financial targets.

Is a planner a stressful job?

A retail planning manager role can be stressful due to the need to meet sales targets, manage inventory, and coordinate with multiple departments under tight deadlines. The job requires strong organizational skills and the ability to handle pressure, especially during peak seasons or when addressing supply chain issues.

What do planners do in retail?

Retail planners are responsible for analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory and space plans to optimize store performance. They collaborate with merchandising, marketing, and store operations to ensure product availability and efficient use of retail space, often using planning software and data analysis tools.

What is the highest paying job in retail?

In retail, executive roles such as Chief Operating Officer (COO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, strategic leadership skills, and often a background in retail management or business administration.

What are some common challenges faced by Retail Planning Managers when aligning inventory with sales forecasts?

Retail Planning Managers often face the challenge of balancing inventory levels to meet fluctuating customer demand while minimizing excess stock and stockouts. They must analyze historical sales data, market trends, and promotional calendars to create accurate forecasts, which can be complicated by seasonal changes or unexpected shifts in consumer behavior. Additionally, collaborating effectively with merchandising, marketing, and supply chain teams is crucial to ensure alignment across departments and to adapt quickly to changes. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong analytical skills, effective communication, and agility in decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Retail Planning Manager, and why are they important?

To excel as a Retail Planning Manager, you need strong analytical skills, merchandising knowledge, and experience in demand forecasting, often supported by a degree in business, retail management, or a related field. Familiarity with inventory management systems, advanced Excel, and planning software like SAP Retail or Oracle Retail is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively and make strategic decisions. These skills are vital for optimizing stock levels, driving sales, and ensuring profitable store performance.

What is the difference between Retail Planning Manager vs Retail Buyer?

AspectRetail Planning ManagerRetail Buyer
Primary FocusDeveloping sales forecasts, inventory plans, and merchandise strategiesSelecting and purchasing products to meet customer demand
Required SkillsData analysis, forecasting, inventory managementMarket research, vendor negotiation, product knowledge
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, retail chainsStore floors, supplier meetings, corporate offices
Common CertificationsRetail management, supply chain certificationsMerchandising, purchasing certifications

The Retail Planning Manager focuses on forecasting and inventory strategies to optimize sales, while the Retail Buyer concentrates on selecting and purchasing products. Both roles require analytical skills and industry knowledge but serve different functions within retail operations.

More about Retail Planning Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Retail Planning Manager jobs? Cities with the most Retail Planning Manager job openings:
What states have the most Retail Planning Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Retail Planning Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Retail Planning Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Retail Planning Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Retail Planning Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,499 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Associate Planner - Morgan Hill, CA

Associate Planner - Morgan Hill, CA

Shoe Palace

Morgan Hill, CA • On-site

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

New


Shoe Palace rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

AT SHOE PALACE WE RUN. WE SELL. WE HAVE FUN!
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
THE ROLE
Are you ready to turn data into strategy?
The Associate Planner is a key member of the Planning team, supporting merchandising strategies through financial planning, inventory management, and business analysis. In this role, you will partner closely with Buying teams to develop financial plans, monitor business performance, and help drive profitable decisions across the business.
Shoe Palace is unlike any other retailer. Are you ready?
THIS IS WHAT A DAY AT WORK MAY BE LIKE
• The Associate Planner assists in developing and managing departmental financial plans to support merchandising strategies.
• This role collaborates closely with buying teams to create style and category strategies aligned with financial objectives.
• The Associate Planner monitors performance and recommends changes to enhance profitability and productivity. Under the guidance of the Planning Manager, the associate planner will support in various planning activities to gain deeper exposure to planning processes.
• Manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) at the department and/or category level with monthly presentation to company leadership.
• Develop pre-season financial plans and in-season analyses, including units, sales, and margin at style, or category levels for areas of ownership and works with buyers to execute buys that support these plans.
• Develop profitable entrance and exit strategies with buyers for new, seasonal and core programs.
• Monitor inventory levels and help ensure alignment with sales forecasts and merchandising strategies.
• Develop and prepare reports and analyses to inform decision-making by the team and management.
• Create, update, and manage weekly sales, inventory, and receipt plans to maintain optimal inventory levels for core styles (ladder planning).
ABOUT YOU
• BS or BA degree required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in planning, merchandising, inventory management, or a related area preferred.
• Internship or coursework in retail planning or merchandising is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to deal with ambiguity and complexities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including advanced-level Excel, and familiarity with data analysis tools.
• Proficient communication and collaboration abilities.
WHAT WE BRING TO THE TABLE
A sense of belonging. A team driven by performance, accountability, and collaboration.
A sense of purpose. GRIT. We make decisions that move the business forward.
A sense of impact. Your work directly supports merchandising decisions, inventory strategy, and company growth.
A sense of fun. WE RUN. WE SELL. WE HAVE FUN.
Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, and your SP discount.
Shoe Palace is one of the most trusted athletic footwear and apparel retail chains in the United States. What began as a small family business in 1993 has grown into a nationally recognized brand with a strong retail presence and a growing online platform at shoepalace.com.
At Shoe Palace, we believe in rolling up our sleeves and doing what it takes to stay ahead. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to create something meaningful. We are seeking motivated individuals who are innovative thinkers and strong collaborators who thrive in an entrepreneurial environment and are eager to contribute to the continued growth of Shoe Palace Corporation.
Pay Range: $71,000.00-$71,000.00
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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