This position is based at our corporate office in Phoenix, AZ, and follows a hybrid work schedule. Remote work is not available for this role. Candidates must reside within commuting distance, as relocation assistance is not provided. Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored visa support. Job Overview: The Senior Inventory Planner is responsible for managing the end-to-end product lifecycle, including forecasting, inventory planning, replenishment, and vendor collaboration. This role serves as a key partner across Merchandising, Vendors, Distribution Centers, and Store Operations to ensure the right products are available in the right locations at the right time. The primary objective of this position is to maintain optimal inventory levels across 950+ Leslie's locations while maximizing sales, profitability, and inventory productivity. The Senior Inventory Planner will leverage forecasting, data analysis, and business insights to make strategic inventory decisions, including managing inventory investments, reducing excess inventory, and ensuring fast-moving products remain in stock. This role requires a strong communicator and collaborative leader who can influence cross-functional partners, manage vendor relationships, and drive continuous improvement within inventory processes. Responsibilities: - Create, maintain, and track purchase orders to support business needs and inventory goals. - Analyze vendor lead times and ensure products are ordered within appropriate timelines to meet demand. - Manage purchase order activity to align with Open-to-Buy (OTB) targets and inventory strategies. - Monitor sales performance and inventory trends to make informed decisions regarding purchase order pull-ins, push-outs, and adjustments. - Manage and resolve backorder opportunities to support product availability. - Develop and maintain accurate product forecasts to support inventory planning decisions. - Manage forecast exceptions and identify opportunities for improvement. - Maintain effective replenishment parameters to optimize inventory levels across the business. - Analyze sales trends and inventory performance to improve in-stock availability. - Partner with Distribution Centers to resolve inventory discrepancies and shipment issues. - Manage return-to-vendor (RTV) processes as needed. - Monitor inbound inventory flow and ensure products are moving efficiently through the supply chain. - Provide direction and support to 1-2 team members to help achieve departmental goals. - Provide coaching, feedback, and recognition to support team development. - Create and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) to increase efficiency and consistency. - Identify opportunities to improve inventory processes and business outcomes. Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred; or equivalent retail inventory planning experience. - Minimum of 3 years of experience in retail, inventory planning, merchandising, or supply chain. - Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. - Advanced Excel skills and ability to work with inventory management systems. - Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities within established timelines. - Ability to work onsite Tuesday-Thursday. Leslie's provides a robust benefits package, including: - Comprehensive medical, pharmacy, dental, & vision plan options. - Health savings account (with enrollment in the high deductible health plan option). - Health & dependent care flexible spending accounts. - Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. - Voluntary supplemental life insurance. - Company-paid short-term disability and voluntary long-term disability insurance. - Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) with company match. - Paid vacation, sick, and bereavement leave. - Paid holidays, including a floating personal day. - Employee assistance and wellness programs. - Earned Wage access is available, allowing early access to a portion of your earned wages before payday. - Product discounts at Leslie's Retail stores.