Senior Manager for Merchandise Planning

At DSW, we believe in the power of shoes. We understand shoes bring out something great from within, and since 1991 we've been helping everyone feel the rush of finding that perfect pair. So when you work for DSW, you become a part of all that. A family whose core values are comprised of passion, accountability, collaboration, and humility. You become one of us, You become a Shoe Lover!

The Senior Manager, Merchandise Planning develops and mentors Planning Associates to support the business strategy and financial metrics for an area within DSW. This includes the day-to-day functions of the merchandise planning teams for assigned merchandise categories. Responsible for the development of Merchandise financial plans and revisions to maximize profitability and inventory productivity. This position involves travel to the stores and shoe shows/vendors. Significant partnering with the Buying team.

* Lead and manage the Merchandise Planning team in the development, analysis and revision of sales, inventory, markdowns and profit. * Build strong partnerships with cross-functional teams (Buying, Store Planning, Allocation, Marketing, Finance) around Strategy Development and Business Management. * Propose and deliver business recaps and financial strategies. Lead MPR (Merchandise Plan Review) for assigned merchandise categories. * Ensure that the financial strategy pursued is consistent with the budget and profit parameters. * Maintain risk assessment models that are used to determine buy levels and maintain profitability to budgets. * Hire, coach and develop a quality team including succession planning and regular performance reviews to address personal growth and development needed to foster a productive, focused team. * Provide the leadership and the necessary formal and informal training, including one-on-one development, needed to produce a team that contributes consistent financial growth to the business. * Work with other areas of the business as needed, to ensure proper support and coordination of Merchandise issues including allocation, merchandising and finance * Recommend action and communicate issues that relate to Merchandising and may hinder DSW’s ability to achieve our financial objectives. * Develop and present information to executive teams * Cross-functional and store travel as needed.

* 8-10 years’ experience in merchandise planning * Strong statistical/analytical skills including data retrieval, organization, presentation and summary skills * Excellent communication skills including written and verbal with emphasis on delivery of financial concepts * Proficient in Excel, Data Warehouse/Business Objects and Arthur Planning * B.S. degree in Business or equivalent work experience