Merchandise Planner

Overview
The Merchandise Planner is responsible for executing the merchandise planning process for assigned departments or categories. Working under the direction of a Senior Merchandise Planner, Merchandise Planning Manager, or Director, the Merchandise Planner develops and maintains financial plans, analyzes business performance, and partners with the Buying and Allocation teams to support sound inventory management and achieve departmental financial goals.

What We Stand For

Established in 1978, The Container Store has grown to be the leading specialty retailer of storage and organization products in the United States and the only national retailer solely devoted to the category. We provide creative, multifunctional, customizable storage and organization solutions that help our customers save time, save space and improve the quality of their lives. We foster a culture built around our Foundation Principles, which define how we approach our relationships with our employees, vendors, customers and communities and influence every aspect of our business.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and revise bottom-up department sales, margin, and inventory turn plans for assigned categories in alignment with divisional and company financial goals.
• Partner with the Buying team to manage inventory levels through accurate forecasting, assortment planning, and markdown strategies.
• Maintain open-to-buy for assigned departments, ensuring all purchase orders fall within approved financial parameters.
• Develop sales and margin goals for promotional events within assigned categories; coordinate with the Allocation team to support appropriate inventory levels on promotional merchandise.
• Identify and communicate weekly markdown needs and recommendations to the Senior Merchandise Planner, Merchandise Planning Manager, or Director.
• Run and analyze reports on a regular basis to monitor business performance, identify trends, and surface risks and opportunities to planning leadership.
• Partner with the Allocation team to support inventory balance across store locations for assigned departments.
• Assist in the development and training of Associate Planners as directed.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings with Buying, Allocation, and Finance teams to support integrated business planning.
• Demonstrates a commitment to Kirkland's Values.

We believe in taking care of our team. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package that goes beyond just health insurance (though we've got that covered too!). Here at The Container Store, we're passionate about helping you contain your health, grow your career, and find balance in your life.

Here's a peek at what you can expect:

• Rewarding pay to recognize the value you bring to the team.
• Competitive health, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your loved ones well.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with optional investment guidance and assistance offered through Fidelity.
• Unique "1equals3" website for easy access to your benefits information and company updates.
• We've got your back! Competitive sick pay and PTO plan to ensure you can take time off to recharge and come back feeling your best.

For our full-time associates, we offer even more:

• Peace-of-mind benefits: Basic life insurance, disability insurance options, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity insurance and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
• Family-focused support: Considerate parental leave policies, adoption and surrogacy assistance, and fertility & maternity support program.
• Work-life balance boosters: Paid holidays, gym membership discounts, and a qualified transportation benefits program to save on commutes.
• Discounts galore: Enjoy a hefty discount on our amazing products, including merchandise, custom spaces, and services, gift cards, and pet insurance (because fur-babies matter!).
• Recognition you deserve: We honor our employees with service awards and retirement gifts, celebrate those who exemplify our core principles, and recognize exceptional daily contributions.
• Thriving with diversity: Participate in our Employee Resource and Affinity Groups and help guide how we give back to the community, while having a space to connect, support one another, and celebrate cultural heritages.

But that's not all! We offer a fun and collaborative work environment where you can learn, grow, and make a real difference.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• 2+ years of merchandise planning or related retail experience.
• Highly motivated and results oriented with a demonstrated ability to deliver against departmental financial goals.
• Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with cross-functional partners including Buying and Allocation.
• Ability to present business performance updates and action plans to planning leadership.
• Demonstrates strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Demonstrates strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Must have strong technical skills; specifically, Microsoft Excel and Business Intelligence software.
• Experience with Planning and Allocation tools preferred; Oracle / JDA plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.

The Container Store promotes a smoke-free, drug-free environment.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and comply with the

Americans with Disabilities Act

Stores Physical Requirements

State Specific Notices