The Merchandise Planning Analyst supports merchandise planning and inventory optimization efforts across MyEyeDr.’s retail network. This position is responsible for developing and executing merchandise plans, analyzing sales and inventory trends,and partnering cross-functionally to ensure the right product assortment is available at the right time, right depth and location. The ideal candidate is highly analytical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with data to identify trends, resolve issues, and support business performance. This role partners closely with Merchandising, Supply Chain, and Operations teams to help ensure the right product assortment is available at the right time and location.Reporting to the Sr. Director, Merchandise Planning, this is a hybrid position with an in-office requirement of 2 days per week out of our Vienna, VA office. You Will
- Support the development and ongoing management of merchandise financial plans, including sales, margin, and inventory targets
- Assist in updating and maintaining plans based on actual performance, trends, and business inputs
- Contribute to seasonal and periodic forecasting processes
- Build and maintain demand forecasts using historical data, trends, and business inputs under guidance from planning leadership
- Update forecasts regularly and analyze variances between plan and actual performance
- Provide recommendations to improve forecast accuracy and planning assumptions
- Monitor inventory levels and performance metrics (e.g., sell-through, weeks of supply, stock levels)
- Identify potential stockouts, excess inventory, and imbalances, and escalate recommendations
- Partner with cross-functional teams to help improve inventory flow and replenishment effectiveness
- Prepare and maintain recurring and ad hoc reports on sales, inventory, and financial performance
- Analyze data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities across categories and locations
- Translate data into clear, actionable insights for merchandising and planning teams
- Partner with Merchandising, Supply Chain, and Store Operations teams to support execution of merchandise strategies
- Provide analytical support for product launches, promotions, and assortment changes
- Assist in aligning planning inputs across functions
- Support enhancements to planning tools, reporting processes, and data accuracy
- Identify opportunities for increased efficiency and improved analytics
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives within the planning function
About You
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, Economics, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in merchandise planning, financial analysis, retail analytics, or similar
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, lookups, data analysis)
- Ability to create forecasts and manage the process through ongoing updates, variance analysis, and cross-functional input
- Ability to work with large datasets and translate findings into insights
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
Preferred
- Experience in retail or multi-unit environments (healthcare retail a plus)
- Experience with data visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
- Basic understanding of inventory management and demand planning concepts
- Analytical thinking and data interpretation
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Time management and prioritization
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Adaptability in a fast-paced environment
- Intellectual curiosity and continuous improvement mindset
Grow with Us
- Career Development and Training Opportunities
- Participate in a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental coverage, tax-free savings plans, life insurance and more
- Participate in our Vision coverage and associate discounts on our products
- Participate in our 401(k) with competitive company match
- Accrue PTO and paid holidays from day one