About this Merchandise Allocator role at New Balance
Who We Are:
Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.
JOB MISSION:
New Balance’s Allocator will develop the allocation plan and strategy for a group of stores, categories, or channels with the goal of meeting/exceeding sales and gross margin targets, while maximizing in-stock and inventory turns. The allocator will lead, share information, and partner with buyers in order to help drive buying and pricing decisions. Responsible to allocate merchandise to ensure stores/channel have the inventory to support sales and margin goals. This is done by having product at the right time, in the right place, at the right quantities, with an understanding of End of Life strategies for each product. Partnering with buyers, determine and maintain store groups and ranks on a seasonal basis. Execute initial set allocations, leverage the allocation and replenishment system to execute each product life cycle allocation, and manage the replenishment strategy.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Work jointly with buyers and planners to determine departmental and store level inventory projections and flow to support sales plans and achieve turn goals
Manage auto replenishment and make adjustments based on sales trend, seasonal factors, and business needs
Manage and track PO flow and inventory to retail stores or DTC DC.
Escalate inventory flow issues with buyers and planners and provide recommendations
Maximize shipping efficiency across the distribution network based on store and consumer location (Right product in the right location at the right time)
Initiate seasonal Min/Max set-up and replenish key skus on a weekly/monthly basis or as needed.
Create and maintain auto-replenishment and building model stocks.
Determine appropriate allocation strategy for product type based on product life cycle to minimize EOL inventory.
Develop allocation practices that take into account store capacity, demand, and seasonality.
Provide inventory analysis and reporting that can be leveraged across team
Identify and implement style curves/seasonality
Evaluate Weeks of Supply and partner with buyers to execute End of Life Product strategies.
Responsible for managing the store capacity sheet for inventory risks and opportunities.
Perform various store level analysis to anticipate the needs of the business.
Promote positive team environment within the Merchant Team
Identify strengths and improve performance by supporting multi-skill development
Must be able to clearly and concisely present analytical data and propose solutions in an organized manner to cross functional team
Partner with the buying Team on seasonal Calendars, understanding key drivers, promotions, big ideas and new launches
Develop business relationships with key internal Operations Team (Warehouse, Customer Care, IT, etc.)
Partner with the buyers to analyze style level inventory and communicate risks/opportunities
Partner with operations and distribution center for inventory flow and collaboration.
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
Bachelor’s degree plus a minimum of 2 + years of merchandise allocation experience or 3 + years of retail experience in a high volume store
Strong retail math and analytical skills
Intermediate to Advanced computer skills (Excel)
Excellent communication skills-including written, verbal and listening
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to prioritize workload and manage competing priorities
Proficient in Diver, Aptos and POS systems is a plus
Regular Associate Benefits
Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.
Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.
Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.
Flexible Work Schedule
For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.
Equal Opportunity Employer
New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.
