Our client is looking to fill the role of Freelance Retail Associate Merchandise Planner. Contractor to support the team as an Associate Merchandise Planner. This individual will support categories or departments of merchandise and work as a primary partner to Merchandising to build viable plans and profitable results. The Associate Merchandise Planner is responsible for developing and maintaining sales, inventory, and margin plans that tie to financial targets for the assigned divisions/departments. Responsibilities: Prepare pre-season Original Plans; financial sales, gross margin, and inventory, 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. Build financial sales, gross margin and inventory plans at a weekly level on a seasonal basis. Strategize, develop and present seasonal key item plans that support sales and merchandise goals. Manage and plan merchandise inventory positions and markdown strategies to drive departmental sales, inventory, profit and turnover objectives. Work closely with the buyer(s) to review in season product trends and performance, develop revised projections, and recommend adjustments to the season's plan to maximize sales and profitability. Present monthly revisions of merchandise plans to Merchandise/Planning and Allocation executives. Provide fiscal control through analysis and management of markdowns and purchase orders. Identify risks and opportunities to maximize profits. Partner with internal business partners to communicate financial merchandising plans and strategies to support financial objectives. Work with merchandising and marketing to develop promotional strategies. Analyze promotional effectiveness and make future recommendations. Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or equivalent required. 2+ years prior merchandise planning experience from a specialty or department store. In-depth knowledge of retail math concepts, applications, and statistical analysis. Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. High degree of proficiency MS Office Suite, Outlook & Internet applications. 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.

If you meet the required qualifications and are interested in this role, please apply today. The Solomon Page Distinction Solomon Page offers a comprehensive benefit program for hourly employees. We pride ourselves on offering medical, dental, 401(k), direct deposit and commuter benefits to our employees, including freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve.