SENIOR MANAGER MERCHANDISE PLANNING - HYBRID

General Summary:
The Senior Manager, Merchandise Planning leads and develops Merchandise Planning and Item 
Planning associates to foster innovation, support the business strategy and financial metrics for an area 
within DSW. This position is responsible for the creation and execution of strategic vision to maximize profitability and 
inventory productivity. This position is Hybrid to our Columbus, OH office.

Reports to: Senior Director, Merchandise Planning

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Leads and manages the Merchandise Planning team in the development, analysis and revision of 
sales, inventory, markdowns and profit.
• Builds strong partnerships with cross-functional teams in Buying, Store Planning, Allocation, 
Marketing and Finance to drive strategy and manage the business.
• Ensures that the financial strategy is consistent with the financial budget and profit parameters.
• Maintains risk assessment modes that are used to determine buy levels and maintain profitability.
• Recommends action and communicates issues that relate to financial planning of merchandise or 
may hinder DSW's ability to achieve financial objectives.
• Prepares for and participates in business meetings to ensure that the financial plan aligns with the 
Merchandising strategy. Holds buying team accountable to make adjustments to meet business 
need and/or financial responsibility.
• Presents information and recommendations to executive team.
• Hires, coaches and develops a quality team including succession planning and regular 
performance reviews which addresses personal growth and development and fosters a 
productive, focused and engaged team.
• Provides leadership and oversight to direct reports; including formal and informal training, one on 
one development to foster an environment of engagement.
Required Skills and Competencies:
In addition to the DSW Core Competencies listed below, indicate the key knowledge and skills required to 
successfully perform the job. Examples may include physical, technical, managerial and problem-solving 
knowledge and skills.

Required Skills:
• Strong statistical and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with emphasis on communicating financial 
concepts
• Proficient in Excel, Data Warehouse/Business Objects, Arthur Planning Systems and JDA
• Experience leading a team and developing direct reports in a planning role

Competencies
Strategic Thinking – Creates and effectively communicates long term vision. Keeps team’s work aligned 
to strategy. Creates and adjusts plans. Understands big picture to constructively challenge the status 
quo. Generates new ideas. Encourages innovation. Manages change effectively. Knows internal 
strengths and weaknesses.
Leading & Motivating – Models and supports DSW values. Assesses, identifies, retains and develops 
talent. Builds complementary teams. Motivates, supports and challenges associates. Resolves conflict. 
Makes tough decisions. Provides timely feedback. Works with and through others to exceed expectations 
of customers (internal/external)
Managing for Results – Produces sustainable results consistently. Holds team accountable. Recognizes 
and resolves complex problems. Understands underlying issues and addresses root causes. Measures, 
analyzes quantitative information and presents it effectively. Seeks input from others. Makes timely 
decisions.

Qualifications:
Experience:
• Requires 8-10 years of experience in Merchandise Planning, Allocation, Financial Analysis, or 
Buying

Preferred Qualifications:
Education:
• BS degree in Business, Finance or related study; or equivalent work experienc