Forecast Analyst

Forecast Analyst

REI Co-op is seeking a dedicated Forecast Analyst to join our team in Seattle, Washington. This is a permanent, onsite position for a mid-level professional. At REI, we are united in finding better ways to work and helping people find and enjoy the outdoors. When you work for the co-op, you do your best work and receive support to live your best life, helping to shape the future of the outdoors for people and the planet.

About the Role

This role is crucial to REI's success, involving in-depth examination, accurate forecasting, managing vendor relations, and optimizing product inventory to meet financial goals. You will maintain strong business relationships and communication with Merchandising Product and Replenishment teams, vendor partners, and cross-divisional colleagues. The position provides detailed and accurate business insights to support growth for both Retail stores and Digital businesses, acting in accordance with REI’s guiding values and mission.

Key Responsibilities

Business:

• Own the creation of seasonal product demand forecasts based on research and input from Merchant Product partners.
• Collaborate with the Category Planning Manager (CPM) to reconcile category forecasts with seasonal financial plans, ensuring goals are achievable and presenting the plan to department leadership.
• Analyze product trends and performance with a forward-looking mindset to drive sales.
• Apply sound financial actions to product strategy to deliver growth.
• Manage product inventory flow (in-season and pre-season) to achieve performance goals.
• Initiate and manage purchase orders.
• Drive vendor accountability for delivery accuracy and timeliness, and negotiate to achieve profitability goals.
• Manage markdown planning and provide product end-of-lifecycle recommendations.

Team:

• Utilize proven communication skills to engage and challenge others for the achievement of business goals.
• Provide insights and feedback to Merchant Product & Planning partners to influence better Assortment Planning.
• Conduct ad-hoc analysis and reporting to support business needs as a category specialist.
• Partner with the Merchandising Data Specialist & Assistant Category Merchant to manage open orders.
• Collaborate with the Replenishment Analyst on funding and prioritizing in-season item reactions.

Self:

• Pursue self-development through work with your Manager, training, and networking with other Forecast Analysts.
• Develop change management skills to thrive in an expanding work environment.
• Participate in cross-functional project opportunities to gain a co-op-wide perspective.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of merchandising experience.
• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Familiarity and interest in REI products, activities, and services.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows, Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Explorer).
• Experience with product trend and inventory analysis, forecasting, acquisition, allocation, and management for multiple stores and digital sales.
• Knowledge and effective execution of merchandising math methods, including open-to-buy, initial mark-up, gross margin, markdowns, shrink, damages, and inventory turnover.
• Excellent communication skills, business acumen, creative thinking, and sound judgment to solve problems or identify business opportunities.

What We Offer

REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan, and accrued time off.

Pay Range: $74,400.00 - $119,100.00 per year.

At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization. We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day, you will be driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life.