Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is the premier specialty retailer of high-quality products for the kitchen and home in the United States. Our family of brands are Williams Sonoma, Williams Sonoma Home, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn teen, pottery barn kids, Rejuvenation, Mark & Graham, west elm, or Outward. These brands are among the best known and most respected in the industry. We offer beautifully-designed, stylish and functional products for every area of the home, including the kitchen, living room, bedroom, home office, closet, laundry room and even outdoor spaces. We've seen some big changes since our first brick-and-mortar store opened more than half of a century ago. What hasn't changed is our passion for high-quality products, functional design, outstanding customer service, and enhancing the lives of our customers and the communities where we operate. Today, we're a multi-brand, multi-channel, global enterprise supported by state-of-the-art technology and some of the most talented teams in retailing - and we're always looking for new energy and ideas.
We hope you're interested in building a home with us. Even if you don't feel that you meet every requirement listed in this job description, we still encourage you to apply.
About the Inventory Management Team
You will be part of the Inventory Planning organization is responsible for the strategic planning of inventory positions to drive sales, manage inventory turn and meet or exceed financial targets for your area of responsibility. Inventory associates are innovators, optimizers and problem solvers who are constantly seeking opportunities to move the business forward. You will collaborate with other business functions to support a product strategy intended to meet our customer's needs.
Overview of the Senior Distribution Planner role
You will manage and control inventory levels to achieve concept sales, inventory, profit and turnover objectives. Identify business risks and opportunities and propose solutions to maximize sales objectives. Perform Planning responsibilities for multiple departments. Lead or participate in department projects to improve systems or efficiencies. Responsible for purchasing and distribution objectives for area of responsibility.
Responsibilities
Communicate Assortment plan to Distribution Analyst to achieve appropriate Distribution Strategy. Plan sales and forecast appropriate inventory levels by SKU. Review visual floor set to insure appropriate inventory in-stock requirements. Identify potential inventory liabilities and take appropriate actions to bring quantity to a desired level. Build a team relationship with merchant counterpart(s). Determine quantity to purchase for new and continuing SKUs. Forecast, review and revise inventory purchases to maintain optimum inventory flow. Manage and maintain department financial forecast. (OTB/rolling forecast) Take timely action to maximize sales, profitability and inventory productivity. Develop and provide appropriate business analysis to influence future purchases and assortment strategies. Participate as an integral partner with visual, merchandising, store operations, sourcing and the distribution centers. Provide initial and future order quantities to appropriate group for P.O. generation and communication to the vendor. (PB to merchandising, WS to vendor, future TBD). Lead or participate in department projects to improve systems or efficiencies. Direct Distribution Analyst to translate SKU buy plans into distribution strategy. Review and approve with Distribution analyst: Distribution plans, Initial distribution and replenishment plans. Recommend effective processes and procedures to improve workflow and results. Mentor, educate and develop staff. Hire, train, supervise and develop distribution analyst and/or planners. Purchase order approval process. Oversee appropriate system parameters, profiles, safety stocks, display minimums, etc. to achieve store/item in stock goals and objectives. Operate a computer and communicate via telephone Transport materials and equipment and lift, move, and carry objects up to 50 pounds on a limited basis
Criteria
5+ years retail planning and distribution. Strong technical and systems skills. 1-2 years people management experience. Ability to work cross functionally with the Field Operations and store management Ability to perform work onsite in the New York office full-time pending state, local, and Company return-to-work guidance during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
We believe in People First
We firmly believe that working in a culture focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion spurs innovation, creates healthy and high-performing teams, and delivers superior customer experiences. Our DEI initiatives prompt associate participation and engagement, aligning with our core vision to reflect the communities where we do business and put people first.
Benefits Just for You
Depending on your position and your location, here are a few highlights of what you might be eligible for:
A generous discount on all Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits Tax-free commuter benefits A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health
Your Journey in Continued Learning
In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities Resources for self-development Advisor (Mentor) program Career development workshops and learning programs Speaker series
WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration
This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.
Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, or other applicable state or local laws and ordinances.
The expected starting pay range for this position is $85,000 - $100,000. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.
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