VP, Merchandise Planning - Full-time

At Five Below our growth is a result of the people who embrace our purpose: We know life is way better when you are free to Let Go & Have Fun in an amazing experience, filled with unlimited possibilities, priced so low, you can always say yes to the newest, coolest stuff! Just ask any of our over 17,000 associates who work at Five Below and they'll tell you there's no other place like it. It all starts with our purpose and then, The Five Below Way, which is our values and behaviors that each and every associate believes in.

It's all about culture at Five Below, making this a place that can inspire you as much as you inspire us with big ideas, super energy, passion, and the ability to make the workplace a WOWplace!

Role Overview:

The VP of Merchandise Planning will lead the team responsible for developing and executing merchandise plans aligned with Five Below's overall strategy. The role is pivotal to Five Below's success, overseeing the processes and strategy related to merchandise financial planning, assortment planning, and in-season management. The primary goal of the role is to optimize sales, margin, and inventory turnover through effective planning, forecasting, and inventory management. The VP of Merchandise Planning will also play a critical role in the transformation of Planning capabilities including processes, systems, and cross-functional collaboration in support of the Five Below Triple Double Strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement merchandise planning strategies aligned with the company's financial objectives, market trends, and customer demand.
• Team Leadership: Provide guidance, mentorship, and leadership to the merchandise planning team. Foster a collaborative and high-performance work culture.
• Assortment Planning: Collaborate with buying teams to create comprehensive assortment plans that meet customer needs, align with brand identity, and maximize profitability.
• Inventory Management: Oversee inventory levels and distribution across various channels and store formats to ensure optimal stock levels while minimizing excess or obsolete inventory.
• Demand Forecasting: Utilize historical data, market trends, and other relevant factors to forecast demand accurately. Develop and refine forecasting models to improve accuracy.
• Financial Analysis: Analyze sales trends, margin performance, and other key metrics to identify opportunities and risks. Use insights to make data-driven decisions in merchandise planning.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments such as marketing, sales, finance, and operations to ensure alignment and effective execution of merchandise plans.
• Technology and Tools: Leverage and implement appropriate planning tools, systems, and technology to enhance the merchandise planning process and improve efficiency.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Business Administration, Merchandising, Finance, or related field.
• Proven experience (10+ years) in merchandise planning, retail buying, or related roles within the retail industry.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in forecasting, financial analysis, and inventory management.
• Leadership abilities with experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Proven track record in leading and managing organizational change, implementing new strategies, and driving adoption across teams,
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in using merchandise planning software and tools.

Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with a focus on both big-picture planning and attention to detail.
• Results-driven and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Adaptive and innovative mindset to navigate evolving market trends and consumer behavior.
• Strong business acumen with a passion for retail.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Five Below is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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