Retail Merchandise Financial Planner

Description DIVE IN TO A NEW CAREER WITH LESLIE'S: Founded in 1963, Leslie's is the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry. We serve the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. We operate an integrated ecosystem of 900+ retail locations, backyard service and repair, a robust digital platform, and manufacturing and distribution divisions across 35+ states—enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. With over 60 years of providing best-in-class products and solutions to our customers, there is nothing that we value more than the development and growth of our team. We strive to create a positive and fun atmosphere where our Team Members feel valued and are enthusiastic about the contributions they make to the success of Leslie's. This position is not open to agency submissions. This position is based at our corporate office in Phoenix, AZ, and follows a hybrid work schedule. Remote work is not available for this role. Candidates must reside within commuting distance, as relocation assistance is not provided. Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored visa support. Job Overview: The Merchandise Financial Planner partners with the Inventory Planner, Category Director and Channel Leads to develop and execute merchandise financial plans that support company growth, profitability, and overall merchandising strategy. This role analyzes business performance, identifies risks and opportunities, and provides data-driven recommendations to support seasonal planning, forecasting, and inventory management. Responsibilities: Support the development of seasonal merchandise financial plans to optimize sales, margin, and inventory performance Maintain weekly forecasts for sales, margin, inventory, and receipts Monitor and communicate Open-to-Buy (OTB) positions prior to purchase commitments Incorporate merchandising strategies and initiatives into financial plans and forecasts Analyze weekly business performance and identify trends, risks, and opportunities Assist in creating and implementing action plans to improve financial results Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on financial and inventory plans Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or college diploma/certificate in Business, Finance, Merchandising, or related field Strong understanding of retail math and merchandising principles Experience with inventory management systems or tools preferred Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with high attention to detail Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Self-starter with a proactive and results-driven mindset Adaptable and open to change with a strong willingness to learn Leslie's provides a robust benefits package, including: Comprehensive medical, pharmacy, dental, & vision plan options. Health savings account (with enrollment in the high deductible health plan option). Health & dependent care flexible spending accounts. Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Voluntary supplemental life insurance. Company-paid short-term disability and voluntary long-term disability insurance. Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) with company match. Paid vacation, sick, and bereavement leave. Paid holidays, including a floating personal day. Employee assistance and wellness programs. Earned Wage access is available, allowing early access to a portion of your earned wages before payday. Product discounts at Leslie’s Retail stores. Leslie’s recognizes a critical component to our continued success is our people.  Leslie’s is proud to have a culture of inclusion that seeks to celebrate and embrace the different backgrounds and perspectives that help drive our success and support team members in developing and growing with us. We aim to create a workplace where all team members feel welcomed and valued and inspire each other every day.