Merchandise Planner

Description:

Indigo, Canada’s leading cultural department store and beloved bookseller, is seeking a skilled and analytical Merchandise Planner to join its head office team in Toronto, ON. With a mission to create joyful experiences for customers, Indigo offers more than just books — it delivers moments of inspiration and creativity through curated products, events, and a collaborative environment.

In this pivotal planning role, the Merchandise Planner will be responsible for developing annual merchandise plans, managing financial forecasting, maintaining inventory integrity, and leading Open to Buy processes across assigned product categories. This role collaborates closely with the Planning Manager, Category Manager, and Planning Director to enhance profitability, optimize inventory, and drive category performance.

Key Responsibilities:

Functional:

• Develop and implement strategic merchandise plans and annual budgets.

• Lead weekly forecast planning and manage Open to Buy for assigned categories.

• Monitor article and program performance, adjusting plans as needed.

• Identify and recommend markdowns for underperforming products.

• Analyze trends to drive category performance through pricing, promotions, and inventory levels.

• Manage replenishment orders and optimize store allocations based on real-time trends.

• Maintain store stock levels and monitor weeks of supply.

• Provide detailed reports and actionable insights to cross-functional teams.

• Collaborate with stores and distribution centers to resolve inventory issues.

Customer-Focused:

• Prioritize customer satisfaction in all planning decisions.

• Seek and implement technological solutions that improve customer experience.

• Continuously analyze sales trends to identify improvement opportunities.

Team Collaboration & Culture:

• Work cross-functionally with internal teams such as Finance, Merchandising, Supply Chain, and Retail Operations.

• Share knowledge and encourage collaborative problem-solving.

• Promote a learning culture by embracing feedback, innovation, and diversity of thought.

• Support change and improvement initiatives across the business.

Requirements:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in merchandise planning or allocations.

Skills & Competencies:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

• Strong business and financial acumen with excellent analytical skills.

• Highly detail-oriented with problem-solving abilities.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Understanding of retail distribution and supply chain operations.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, change-driven environment.

• Ability to influence cross-functional teams and negotiate solutions effectively.

Why Join Indigo?

• Be part of a brand that values books, culture, creativity, and innovation.

• Work in a mission-driven organization that adds joy to customers’ lives.

• Collaborate in a diverse and inclusive work environment that celebrates individual backgrounds and perspectives.

• Opportunities for career growth, continuous learning, and meaningful impact across Indigo’s retail and head office teams.