Allocation Planner- Corporate Headquarters, Secaucus, NJ

Position Summary:The Allocation Planner owns end-to-end inventory flow from distribution centers to stores across multiple categories, ensuring optimal product deployment and in-store execution. This role partners cross-functionally to drive continuous improvement in business performance through rigorous forecast review and analysis, effective allocation execution within the JDA system, and the development of data-driven store tiering strategies based on sales performance.The Allocation Planner is responsible for maintaining optimal inventory levels across both E-Commerce and store channels, leveraging an omni-channel perspective to balance demand, maximize sales, and improve inventory productivity.This role is also accountable for season readiness, including pre-season setup and ongoing management of forecast and inventory exceptions. The Allocation Planner evaluates year-over-year strategy shifts and key performance metrics to inform allocation decisions, ensuring alignment to demand and overall business objectives.Key Accountabilities:Analyze pre-season plans and merchandising strategies to identify meaningful changes versus prior year and assess downstream allocation impactTranslate top-line buy strategies into actionable store-level allocation plans, optimizing by style, color, and demand patternsProactively identify and execute in-season allocation opportunities across all channels with an omni-channel inventory lensMonitor and adjust weekly inventory positions based on sales performance, inventory levels, pricing actions, and emerging trends across both E-Commerce and Stores channelsInvestigate inventory exceptions and forecast variances, conducting root cause analysis to inform corrective actionsPartner cross-functionally with Merchandising, Planning, and Visual teams to align weekly strategies and execution prioritiesEnsure clarity and alignment across teams on replenishment strategies, new product flows, and key event readinessAnalyze store-level sales and inventory trends to recommend adjustments to forecasts, assortments, and allocation strategiesProvide in-season insights on product performance at the style, regional, district, and store level to inform decision-makingDevelop end-of-season analyses to identify store-level inventory and assortment opportunities for future optimizationIdentify and communicate opportunities to enhance tools, processes, and reporting capabilitiesDemonstrate ownership of personal development through proactive skill-building and continuous learningSupport leadership with ad hoc analyses and special projects as neededEducation and Experience:Bachelor's degree preferred2-5 years of experience in related roleSkills & BehaviorsStrong analytical capability with the ability to identify trends, patterns, and root causes to inform decision-makingHigh level of technical aptitude with comfort navigating systems, tools, and data environmentsSolid understanding of retail fundamentals, including key metrics, terminology, and financial driversProficiency in BI and reporting tools (e.g., Cognos) with the ability to synthesize data into actionable insightsKnowledge of the inventory lifecycle and its impact on sales, flow, and productivityDemonstrates a strong sense of urgency, ownership, and proactive problem-solving mindsetEmbraces new challenges and adapts quickly in a fast-paced, dynamic environmentProven ability to build effective cross-functional relationships at all levels of the organizationStrong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate insights and recommendationsCollaborative team player who contributes to a positive and results-driven work environmentDetails:Full-time role located in Secaucus, New JerseyHybrid work model includes in-office days on Monday, Tuesday, and ThursdayHealth, Vision & Dental Insurance for full-time employees401K with employer match programGenerous employee discountThe Children's Place is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.