Freelance Associate Merchandise Planner

Our client, a womens and mens lifestyle brand, located in Pittsburgh, PA, is seeking a Freelance Associate Merchandise Planner for their team and business. This role will be primarily responsible for analyzing, identifying and communicating sales and inventory opportunities, and providing risk-mitigation recommendations for the category.Responsibilities:Analyze historical data and current trends to identify risks and opportunities by department and category Present financial forecast and supporting action plans in monthly open to buy meetings Manage basic inventory levels and forecast replenishment buys to support sales forecast Communicate financial results, forecasts, and action plans to management and cross-functional team on a weekly basis Provide hindsight analysis and partner with merchandising on future product positioning and opportunities Callout inventory risks and opportunities and work cross-functionally to solve Prepare pre-season plans; financial sales, merchandise 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 assortment development and buying needs Have ownership of bottoms up SKU plans and buy quantification across category including key item plans of core programs Prepare monthly merchandise reprojection including analytical activities to understand health of category(ies) and actions leading to profitable inventory management Quarterly hind-sight responsibilities including SKU productivity and sell-through analysis Required Qualifications:Experience using advanced Excel skills (pivot tables / vlookups a must), Ability to analyze large data sets Excellent communication/listening skills in a cross-functional environment Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks Ability to negotiate with and influence peers, members of a cross-functional team, and management Possess a clear understanding of financial measurements: sales, gross margin, weeks of supply, inventory turn, sell through, etc. and how to impact them Bachelor’s degree 2-3+ years of dedicated planning experience Previous Vertical Retail planning experience a plus If you meet the required qualifications and are interested in this role, please apply today.The Solomon Page Distinction Our teams, comprised of subject matter experts, develop an interest in your preferences and goals and we act as an advisor for your career advancement. Solomon Page has an extensive network of established clients which allows us to present opportunities that are well-suited to your respective goals and needs – this specialized approach sets us apart in the industries we serve.About Solomon PageFounded in 1990, Solomon Page is a specialty niche provider of staffing and executive search solutions across a wide array of functions and industries. The success of Solomon Page reflects an organic growth strategy supported by a highly entrepreneurial culture. Acting as a strategic partner to our clients and candidates, we focus on providing customized solutions and building long-term relationships based on trust, respect, and the consistent delivery of excellent results. For more information and additional opportunities, visit: solomonpage.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.