Associate Planner

POSITION OVERVIEW:The Associate Planner specializes in historical and trend analysis to maximize sales potential and determine appropriate inventory levels by style/size. By working closely with the Buyers, the Associate Planner will create and maintain models to capture demand for each buying season of the year.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Manage key item forecasts to maintain appropriate stock levels throughout the year, while capturing maximum sales potential by SKU.Partner with multiple buyers to identify emerging key items and maintain current key items.Propose monthly or quarterly buys to ensure consistent store replenishment.Collaborate with allocators to determine appropriate store model inventory by SKU and incorporate findings into key item buy recommendations.Plan and Forecast SKU intensive core Apparel business by using historical data and current trends, paying close attention to seasonality of business.Work closely with Director of Planning & Allocations on forecasting changes that align with Company guidance.Create meaningful analysis and deliver actionable ad hoc reporting by using Business Intelligence tools in order to support business recommendations.Assist Director of Planning & Allocations in development and distribution of Weekly, Monthly and Quarterly reporting.Confidently present business recaps, future forecasts, and go-forward strategies to management, Merchandising department, and vendors.QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:To perform this job successfully, the candidate must be able to multi-task and prioritize work in a fast paced environment. This individual must be a self-starter who needs little to no guidance on the basics of retail math and analysis. The requirements above are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:High School diploma or equivalent required.4-year college degree (bachelor's degree) school is preferred.Strong computer skills; particularly Excel and Word.2 years forecasting or demand unit planning in retail environment.LANGUAGE SKILLS:Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.Excellent interpersonal skills.MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:Strong Retail Math knowledge is a must.Candidate must understand all elements of OTB, as well as calculations for all metrics (sell-through, turnover, margin, AUR, etc.)REASONING ABILITY:Ability to define problems and recommend plans of action using factual information.Strong analytical skills.OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES:Ability to remain flexible, prioritize, and respond to changing requests from management and cross functional team.Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of staff and management.Be an independent and self-motivated team player.ABOUT WSS:WSS is the premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores. Consumers trust WSS for the best brands, greatest values and largest selection of athletic, dress, fashion, and casual footwear for the entire family. Our large store format enables us to showcase thousands of styles from top brands like Nike, Jordan, Vans, Converse, Adidas, Puma, Skechers, etc. In addition, WSS carries high quality private brands augmenting the breadth of selection to deliver amazing value to our customers.Founded in Southern California in 1984 by entrepreneur Eric Alon, all WSS stores feature a unique retail format that displays every style and size. This allows customers to browse on their terms, in a hassle-free environment, engaging the friendly and knowledgeable sales staff when they choose. The success of this business model has allowed WSS to continue its rapid expansion into new markets.WSS is committed to giving back to the communities we serve, sponsoring or participating in over 350 local events each year. Stay connected to us via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and at .WSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.