Associate Planner

who we are

lululemon is an innovative performance apparel company for yoga, running, training, and other athletic pursuits. Setting the bar in technical fabrics and functional design, we create transformational products and experiences that support people in moving, growing, connecting, and being well. We owe our success to our innovative product, emphasis on stores, commitment to our people, and the incredible connections we make in every community we're in. As a company, we focus on creating positive change to build a healthier, thriving future. In particular, that includes creating an equitable, inclusive and growth-focused environment for our people.

about this team

As part of the North America Merchandise Planning team, you are responsible for category sales targets, markdowns, gross margin, turn, and open to buy management, for both pre-season plans and in-season management. You are an essential part of a cross functional regional team, collaborating with Merchandising, Store Operations/ DC Network, and Inventory Management.

The Planning team monitors regional/climate selling trends of style/colour/size to understand changes in trend, reacting to the business and incorporating insights into quantification of future-season buy strategies to maximize sales and mitigate risk. The priority is to understand and protect the guest experience through end-to-end execution of the product strategy that delivers profitable sales growth.

core responsibilities

· This position is responsible for strategic execution of category inventory flow, including optimization of inventory supply quantification & deployment to maximize potential of guest demand.

· Run and analyze core ladders to identify risks or opportunities for NAM

· Collaborate with North America planning team to capitalize on inventory opportunities by identifying transfers or pullbacks.

· Leverages systems, tools, and data to optimize inventory investments across store locations, distribution centers, and e-commerce channels.

· Analyzes historical data and current trends to identify risks and opportunities to business and recommends strategies to achieve financial goals.

· Executes planning, reporting, analysis/decision support under the direction of a manager or planner

· Executes detailed analysis to drive category performance

· Develop sales projections and inventory flow for key items

· Recommends seasonal merchandise flow strategies that maximize sales and guest experience

· Drive financial results that maximize sales, inventory and bottom-line profitability

· Provide support to Merchandising to actively manage product assortment throughout the season (inventory, MDs, etc.)

· Exhibit initiative to look beyond the everyday business to look for opportunities to maximize sales potential

qualifications

· 1-3 years proven planning/merchandising experience within a vertical retailer preferred

· Proficient in Microsoft Office Program and mastery in excel

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret multiple data points across numerous channels and market segments

· Excellent team player as well as the ability to work independently.

· Effective communication skills (written & verbal)

· Extremely organized, thorough and able to prioritize

· Detail orientated

· Strong ability to see the merchandise vision and translate the vision into viable plans.

· Self-directed problem solver, proactive and resourceful

· Responsible, dependable and mature, with sound judgment

· Results oriented - strong sense of motivation

· Capable of effective multiple demand management from a variety of sources and adapts well to change.

· Ability and willingness to accept and provide feedback.

must haves

• Acknowledge the presence of choice in every moment and take personal responsibility for your life.
• Possess an entrepreneurial spirit and continuously innovate to achieve great results.
• Communicate with honesty and kindness and create the space for others to do the same.
• Lead with courage, knowing the possibility of greatness is bigger than the fear of failure.
• Foster connection by putting people first and building trusting relationships.
• Integrate fun and joy as a way of being and working, aka doesn’t take yourself too seriously.

additional notes

Authorization to work in Canada is required for this role.

compensation and benefits package

lululemon’s compensation offerings are grounded in a pay-for-performance philosophy that recognizes exceptional individual and team performance. The typical hiring range for this position is from $80,800 - 106,100 CAD annually; the base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. As part of our total rewards offering, permanent employees in this position may be eligible for our competitive annual bonus program, subject to program eligibility requirements.

At lululemon, investing in our people is a top priority. We believe that when life works, work works. We strive to be the place where inclusive leaders come to develop and enable all to be well. Recognizing our teams for their performance and dedication, other components of our total rewards offerings include support of career development, wellbeing, and personal growth:

• Extended health and dental benefits, and mental health plans
• Paid time off
• Savings and retirement plan matching
• Generous employee discount
• Fitness & yoga classes
• Parenthood top-up
• Extensive catalog of development course offerings
• People networks, mentorship programs, and leadership series (to name a few)

Note: The incentive programs, benefits, and perks have certain eligibility requirements. The Company reserves the right to alter these incentive programs, benefits, and perks in whole or in part at any time without advance notice.

workplace arrangement

In-person collaboration and connection isimportant to our culture. Work is performed onsite, minimum 4 days per week.