Variety Wholesalers, Inc./Big Lots is looking for a Merchandise Planner to join our team! This position is responsible for merchandise planning and business management for multiple Merchandise Departments. The Merchandise Planner’s responsibility includes but not limited to achieve sales and gross margin and turn objectives. Develop strategic merchandise plans at a detailed class level, integrating a holistic approach, applying performance trends and lost sales opportunities to achieve the optimal merchandise assortment.

Qualifying individuals should be highly motivated for business success with an excellent math aptitude and dynamic attributes to perform within a Buying team unit. Must have the ability to act as a Business Manager with extensive interaction with Merchandise Managers, Buyers and Merchandise Analysts.

Position Requirements / Recommended Skills

· Bachelor’s Degree in Business related field.

· 3 – 5 years merchandise planning experience in a retail environment.

· Possess Microsoft Office skill set/awareness: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Access.

· Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Team player with a positive mental attitude; self-motivated, and energetic.

· Excellent retail math skills.

· Strong analytic skills and abstract thought process.

· Excellent systematic aptitude.

· Process oriented.

· Highly motivated for business success.

Company Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401k & Match, PTO--Holidays, Vacation, & Sick.

Salary commensurate with experience.