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Join arenaflex as a Remote Merchandise Planning Analyst
Are you ready to take your analytical career to the next level with one of the world's most innovative retail organizations? arenaflex is seeking a talented and motivated Remote Merchandise Planning Analyst to join our Merchandise Planning Analytics team. In this exciting role, you will play a pivotal part in driving data-informed decisions for our Front End (non-Pharmacy) business, supporting a team of over 100 merchants and 40+ planners who are dedicated to optimizing performance across thousands of Own Brand items.
This is a 6-month contract position with the possibility of extension or conversion to a permanent role, offering you the chance to prove yourself while gaining invaluable experience at a global retail leader. If you have a passion for retail analytics, excel in problem-solving, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we want to hear from you!
About arenaflex and the Merchandise Planning Analytics Team
At arenaflex, we believe that data is the backbone of strategic decision-making in today's fast-paced retail landscape. Our Merchandise Planning Analytics team is at the heart of this mission, delivering comprehensive reporting, insightful analysis, and innovative tool-building solutions that empower our Merchandising team to make smarter, faster, and more effective decisions.
As a Remote Merchandise Planning Analyst, you will become an integral part of a high-performing team that manages the analytical backbone of our retail operations. Your work will directly impact the success of our Own Brand (private label) product lines, helping to shape assortment strategies, forecast demand, and optimize inventory performance across thousands of SKUs. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your analytical abilities while contributing to meaningful business outcomes in a dynamic, growth-oriented organization.
Work Environment and Schedule
We understand the importance of flexibility, which is why we offer a fully remote work arrangement. However, to ensure seamless collaboration with our internal stakeholders, all team members are required to work within the Central Standard Time (CST) zone.
Standard Working Hours:
- Schedule: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (9-hour workday with a 1-hour lunch break from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
- Flexibility: While the core hours are 8 AM to 5 PM CST, we offer some flexibility as long as you maintain a minimum of 30 hours per week to meet business needs
- Remote Setup: You will need a reliable home office setup with a stable internet connection to effectively collaborate with your team and access our systems
This flexible yet structured approach allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance while still being fully engaged with your team and meeting the demands of our fast-paced retail environment.
Key Responsibilities
As a Remote Merchandise Planning Analyst at arenaflex, you will own critical analytical responsibilities that drive business success. Here's what you can expect:
- Own Brand Reporting and Analysis: Take complete ownership of reporting, recapping, tracking, and analysis for our Own Brand (private label) product lines. This includes developing and maintaining comprehensive reports that provide actionable insights to senior leadership and merchandising stakeholders.
- Historical Data Analysis: Conduct thorough item-level historical analysis to identify trends, patterns, and performance drivers across thousands of Own Brand items. Your insights will help inform future strategies and product lifecycle decisions.
- Demand Forecasting: Develop item-level future-looking forecasts based on historical sales data, market trends, and demand patterns. Your forecasting accuracy will directly impact inventory management and sales optimization.
- Ad-Hoc Analysis: Respond quickly and effectively to ad-hoc analysis requests from business stakeholders, providing data-driven insights that support strategic decision-making across the organization.
- Executive Recaps: Synthesize large, complex datasets into meaningful, executive-ready summaries and presentations. You will be responsible for translating raw data into clear, actionable recommendations.
- Tool Building and Optimization: Leverage Microsoft Excel to build complex analytical models, automated reporting tools, and dynamic dashboards that enhance team efficiency and analytical capabilities.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed in this role, you must possess a unique blend of analytical expertise, technical proficiency, and business acumen. We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's Degree in Analytics, Data Science, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
- 3-5 years of professional experience in one or more of the following areas: analytics, data science, finance, financial analysis, assortment planning, retail merchandising, procurement/purchasing, or merchandising
- Minimum 3 years of direct experience in data analytics or a related field with a strong understanding of retail merchandising basics, including category management, merchandising organization structures, and merchandising processes
Technical Proficiency
- Advanced Microsoft Excel Skills (CRITICAL): You must be proficient in using complex Excel functions and features, including:
- SUM and SUMIFS formulas
- Subtotals and data aggregation
- VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP functions
- Macro creation and automation
- Pivot tables and pivot charts
- Data validation and conditional formatting
- Intermediate Microsoft Word and PowerPoint Skills: Ability to create professional documents and compelling presentations that communicate analytical findings effectively
Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities
- Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail
- Ability to conduct complex quantitative analysis and build sophisticated analytical models
- Strong "storytelling" ability – you must translate data into compelling narratives that drive action
- Retail math expertise, including:
- Item-level forecasting based on demand patterns
- Sell-through rate calculations
- Sales and profit goal analysis
- Understanding of sales by type and Average Unit Retail (AUR) impacts
- Knowledge of inventory metrics and sales performance indicators
Communication and Collaboration
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to present complex findings succinctly and effectively to diverse audiences, including executive leadership
- Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships with cross-functional stakeholders, including Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and other business partners
Time Management and Adaptability
- Proven ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments simultaneously
- Track record of meeting tight deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and business needs
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
While the following skills are not required, they will give you a competitive edge in the application process:
- Advanced Degree: MBA or advanced degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or other quantitative analytical disciplines
- Specialized Experience: Previous experience in data science, predictive analytics, or advanced statistical modeling
- Retail Industry Background: Hands-on experience in retail operations, category management, or merchandise planning
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with SQL coding, Microsoft Access, and advanced macro building
- Programming Knowledge: Basic programming skills in Python, R, or similar languages for data analysis
Career Growth and Learning Opportunities
At arenaflex, we are committed to helping our team members grow both professionally and personally. This 6-month contract role offers numerous opportunities for career advancement and skill development:
- Professional Exposure: Work alongside experienced analytics professionals and gain hands-on experience with large-scale retail data sets
- Skill Development: Enhance your Excel modeling, data analysis, and business communication skills through real-world projects
- Industry Knowledge: Deepen your understanding of retail merchandising, category management, and supply chain operations
- Networking: Build relationships with cross-functional teams across Merchandising, Planning, and Finance
- Potential for Growth: Top-performing contractors may be considered for permanent positions or future opportunities within arenaflex
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a competitive compensation package designed to recognize your skills and experience:
- Competitive Pay: Attractive hourly or annual compensation based on experience and qualifications
- Remote Work Stipend: Support for home office setup and internet expenses
- Flexible Schedule: Work-life balance with flexible hours and remote flexibility
- Professional Development: Access to training resources and opportunities to enhance your analytical capabilities
- Potential for Extension/Conversion: Possibility of contract extension or conversion to a permanent full-time role based on performance and business needs
Why Join arenaflex?
arenaflex is more than just a workplace – we are a community of passionate professionals dedicated to transforming retail through data-driven innovation. When you join our team, you become part of a culture that values:
- Innovation: We embrace new ideas and technologies that drive continuous improvement
- Collaboration: We work together across departments to achieve common goals
- Integrity: We conduct business with honesty, transparency, and ethical standards
- Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered
- Excellence: We strive for greatness in everything we do
Apply Today!
If you are ready to take the next step in your analytical career and make a meaningful impact at a global retail leader, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. We are looking for someone who is passionate about data, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is eager to contribute to the success of arenaflex's Merchandising team.
Don't miss this chance to grow your career with arenaflex! Submit your application today and join a team that values talent, innovation, and dedication.
Note: This position requires a minimum commitment of 30 hours per week and working hours within the Central Standard Time (CST) zone. All work will be performed remotely.
We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.