Position Summary:The VP of Planning is a strategic and operational leader responsible for overseeing all aspects of retail and inventory planning for the US Wholesale business unit. This role ensures optimal inventory allocation, accurate forecasting, and alignment with sales and merchandising goals. The ideal candidate combines analytical expertise with leadership experience to drive planning strategies that maximize revenue, margin, and operational efficiency.
Extensive experience within the retail apparel industry and direct experience supporting the Walmart business are required for this position.Key Responsibilities:- Lead and manage the Planning Department, including retail planning, inventory management, and sales analysis.
- Develop and implement strategic planning initiatives to optimize inventory levels, assortment distribution, and replenishment strategies.
- Partner with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales teams to align inventory and forecasting plans with business objectives.
- Oversee planning activities supporting the Walmart account, including forecasting, replenishment, inventory management, sell-through analysis, and reporting.
- Monitor and analyze sales trends, sell-through, and inventory performance to provide actionable insights and recommendations.
- Oversee seasonal planning, promotional events, and product launches to ensure inventory aligns with market demand.
- Develop, track, and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory, sales, and margin performance.
- Ensure data integrity in ERP and reporting systems, providing accurate forecasts and actionable planning data.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team focused on strategic planning, analytics, and operational excellence.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, and efficiency within planning operations.
- Provide executive-level reporting, insights, and recommendations to the leadership team.
Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of experience in retail planning, merchandise planning, or inventory management, with at least five years in a senior leadership role.
- Significant retail apparel industry experience is required.
- Direct Walmart account planning experience is required, including forecasting, replenishment, inventory management, sales analysis, and familiarity with Walmart's planning processes and reporting systems.
- Strong knowledge of retail inventory planning, forecasting, open-to-buy, and assortment management.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and planning/ERP systems; advanced Excel and analytical skills required.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
- Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into actionable business decisions.
- Experience with licensed or branded product categories is preferred.
Work Environment:- Office-based role with frequent collaboration across Planning, Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales teams.
- Standard business hours, with occasional flexibility during seasonal planning and critical retail periods.
- Executive-level role involving strategic decision-making, leadership, and hands-on involvement in planning operations.
