Store Planner

Essential Functions

The Store Planner is responsible for creating a compelling, high-performing merchandise assortment that drives sales, maximizes revenue, and delivers a unique, location-specific product experience for FDE guests. Partnering closely with the Merchandising Manager, the Store Planner defines assortment strategies, manages new product introductions, and develops exit plans for underperforming products. This role contributes to Ashley’s high-performance culture by modeling core values and supporting merchandising initiatives that reinforce Ashley’s position as the #1 home furnishings brand in style, selection, quality, and value.

Key Responsibilities:

Understand the unique preferences and needs of customers across assigned locations and craft assortments that meet $/sqft targets and optimize product performance.
Collaborate with the Sr. Merchandising Manager to set bi-yearly Category/Lifestyle allocation plans by location.
Monitor performance across the territory, executing weekly assortment updates to drive revenue and meet KPIs.
Determine floor sample eligibility for underperforming products and communicate required changes to ensure proper floor presentation.
Develop and execute product addition strategies in partnership with the Merchandise Assortment Planner.
Write purchase orders or merchandise transfers for product additions and communicate execution plans to relevant store teams.
Place replenishment POs for Bedgear and other third-party accessory vendors.
Partner with Visual Merchandisers to maintain Open Order Report integrity, monitor ETAs, and ensure accurate floor stock.
Conduct regular assortment optimization visits to collaborate with store VM teams on actionable plans to improve KPIs.
Serve as a liaison between VM/RVOM and Sales Teams in assigned locations.
Perform additional duties and assignments as requested.
Maintain effective internal relationships through professional communication and efficient processes.
Demonstrate Ashley’s core and growth values in all aspects of job performance.

Schedule Expectations

The Store Planner is scheduled to work a minimum of 40 hours per week.
The number of hours worked will increase during holidays or blackout periods, or for other business need(s).
Weekly/Biweekly Travel to Retail Store Locations Required

Education & Experience Requirements

BA/BS degree in business or merchandising. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of education.
3-5 years’ experience in Category/Brand Management or Merchandising/Buying Roll is preferred.
Core Competencies Include: Process Driven, Productive, Multi-Tasking, Critical Thinking, Analytical & Good Communicator
Self-Starter, who is highly motivated. With an open mind for change.
Intermediate Skills/Knowledge of MS Office Suit – Outlook, Excel, PowerBI