Associate Merchandise Planner

The Associate Merchandise Planner plays a crucial role in driving sales and maximizing profitability by developing and executing strategic merchandise plans. This individual will analyze historical data, current trends, and market insights to forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and ensure the right product is in the right place at the right time. The ideal candidate is a highly analytical, detail-oriented, and collaborative individual with a passion for the retail industry.

Work Environment:

At Duluth Trading Company, we value face-to-face interactions that foster our culture of learning, creativity, and teamwork. The role is based at our headquarters near Madison, WI. You will work in the office Monday through Thursday, with the option to work from home on Fridays if you prefer.

What You’ll Do: 

• Demand Forecasting & Planning:
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of accurate sales and inventory forecasts at various levels (SKU, category, channel, etc.).
  • Analyze historical sales data, market trends, and promotional activities to identify patterns and predict future demand.
  • Utilize forecasting tools and techniques to improve forecast accuracy.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (buying, design, marketing, sales) to gather input and refine forecasts.
• Inventory Management:
  • Monitor inventory performance and identify opportunities to minimize markdowns and maximize sell-through.
  • Analyze stock levels and recommend actions to address overstocks and understocks.
  • Manage allocation and replenishment strategies to ensure optimal product availability across all channels.
• Performance Analysis & Reporting:
  • Generate and analyze weekly, monthly, and seasonal sales and inventory reports.
  • Review key performance indicators (KPIs) and track performance against targets.
  • Conduct in season and post-season analysis to evaluate performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Present findings and recommendations to management.
• Market & Trend Analysis:
  • Stay informed of current fashion trends, competitive landscape, and market dynamics.
  • Partner with the Insights team to analyze consumer behavior and identify emerging trends to inform planning decisions.
  • Conduct weekly competitive analysis to assess pricing, assortment, and promotional strategies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Partner with buying, design, sourcing, marketing, and sales teams to align on product strategies and ensure effective execution.
  • Communicate regularly with stakeholders to provide updates on sales, inventory, and forecast performance.
  • Contribute to the development of seasonal assortment plans and promotional calendars.
  • Participate in assortment reviews. 

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business or related area of study
  • Equivalent work experience will be considered
• 0-3 years of experience
• Strong Communication and interpersonal skills
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of retail math and financial analysis
• Understanding of supply chaing principles
• Knowledge of Google Sheets and data analysis tools
• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. 

Duluth Headquarters Benefits and Perks

Our pursuit of a better way isn't just about our products—it's about our people too.  That's why our Dam Good Crew enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, designed to support their well-being and success.

• Multiple Medical plan options 

• Dental & Vision plans 

• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts 

• Health Savings Account including company contributions  

• Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D

• Company paid Short-Term Disability

• Other various voluntary benefits including: Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Long-Term Disability and Supplemental Life Insurance

• 401(k) Employer Match

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan to purchase Duluth Trading Co. stock at a discount 

• 12 weeks of Parental Leave at 100% pay 

• Paid holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

• Paid Time Off: take it as you need it policy for exempt employees

• Daily pay available  

• 40% Employee Discount 

• Flexible Fridays 

• Onsite fitness center

Position Compensation Outline 

Compensation Range: $52,700 to $75,000/year 

This position is eligible to participate in the company bonus program. 

Compensation listed is for the full-time position at this specific location and is based on several factors, including experience, and qualifications. Benefits and perks may have eligibility requirements and are subject to change.

The responsibilities outlined in this position description are a guideline for the general duties of the position and are not exhaustive of all duties inherent in the job. Duluth Trading Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Started in 1989, Duluth Trading Company exists to enable hard-working individuals to take on life with their own two hands. Folks that revel in doing it the hard way and celebrate finding a better way. We seek talented individuals who share these beliefs and are excited to further the Duluth Trading legacy with a digital-first mindset, always moving forward and always innovating.

From ingenious Duluth workwear, to comfortably capable Buck Naked Underwear, to outside-embracing AKHG, it’s all about the innovative gear and gadgets that equip customers for a more hands-on way of life.

Top-notch quality, immersive storytelling, outstanding customer service, and the shared belief that the go-all-in-and-dig-deep spirit exists with everyone are what sets Duluth Trading Co. apart. We seek talented folks looking to be part of a can-do team that’s hellbent on helping the world to gear up, get its hands dirty, and do.