Job Description

POSITION TITLE: Associate Merchandise Planner

REPORTS TO: Planning Manager

The Associate Planner acts as a business manager for specific categories/departments of merchandise across multiple channels and works as a partner to Omni-Merchants to build viable plans and profitable results. The Associate Planner is responsible for developing and maintaining sales and margin plans that tie to financial targets for their assigned categories or departments (across mainline, factory and direct channels) in order to maximize sales and profitability.

This Associate Merch Planner will partner with the Merchandise Planning team to plan all components (retail, cost, units, margin, etc.) for specific categories/departments pertaining to class or item level in order to maximize sales and profitability.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist Planner/Senior Planner in preparation of pre-season Plans across multiple channels, consistent with the company's top-down goals, to be used in development of the merchandise strategies for the season and to support line development and buying needs.
• Work closely with Planner/Senior Planner and Omni-Merchants in reviewing in season product trends in order to revise the season's plan with updated projections that maximize sales and profitability.
• Partner with Planner/Senior Planner to present monthly revisions of merchandise plans to Merchandise/Inventory Planning executives.
• Analyze historical data and current trends to identify risks and opportunities. Review and analyze business performance trends.
• Develop item plans as required within their department.
• Understand and forecast effects of markdowns on item sales rates and category/department profitability.
• Participate in all meetings involving the Merchandise Planning department (ex. MPC, Monday Merchandise Meetings).
• Provide fiscal control through management of markdowns and purchase orders.
• Develop in-depth knowledge of Omni-Planning tools and execute building plans at an item level that support top level goals.
• Enhance knowledge of data resources that are available and become familiar with the merchandise for which they are developing plans.
• Support team projects as needed; additional responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
• 3+ years of previous merchandise planning experience, preferably in a specialty retail environment, or previous retail buying experience.
• Retail math knowledge preferred.
• Product knowledge of apparel and related merchandise.
• High degree of proficiency MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation & planning skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated collaborative skills and ability to work well within a team.
• Ability to work with and influence peers and senior management.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.

American Eagle Outfitters is an Equal Opportunity Employer

PAY/BENEFITS INFORMATION:

• Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.
• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time/exempt or non-exempt), and years of service. For additional information, please click HERE.
• AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.

Get to Know AEO
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE: AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer with a portfolio of beloved apparel brands including American Eagle, Aerie, OFFL/NE by Aerie, Todd Snyder and Unsubscribed.
Rooted in optimism, inclusivity and authenticity, AEO’s brands empower every customer to celebrate their unique personal style by offering casual, comfortable, timeless outfitting and high-quality products that are made to last. In addition to a robust e-commerce business, we operate stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with merchandise available in more than 30 countries through a global network of license partners.
At AEO, we believe in the power of our people and our brands. Our Better Together culture creates a mutual desire to succeed–inspiring our community to excel, while driving future growth for the business and associates. Through experience, exposure and education we empower associates to build their unique career journey.
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access at AEO
We remain committed to building an inclusive culture that is welcoming and fosters a sense of belonging for everyone. Please see more about our initiatives here
AEO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity ("EEO") laws. AEO prohibits discrimination against associates and applicants for employment because of the individual's race or color, religion or creed, alienage or citizenship status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or partnership status, domestic violence or stalking victim status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This applies to all AEO activities, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, compensation, assignment, training, promotion, performance evaluation, discipline and discharge. AEO also provides reasonable accommodation of religion and disability in accordance with applicable law.
Applications will be accepted until the Apply Before date (if applicable), but may be extended based on applicant volume.