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Advance Auto Parts · 2 months ago

Director, Assortment Planning

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

15+ years exp

Advance Auto Parts is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider, and they are seeking a Director of Assortment Planning. This role focuses on leading a team of assortment planners to optimize product availability across various channels while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance assortment strategies.

AutomotiveRetail

Responsibilities

Lead a team of managers and planners who develop and execute category strategies and build assortment plans for front room and back room categories across stores and distribution centers

Establish a vision and strategy to guide the team in developing process improvements to optimize assortment availability

Closely collaborate with cross-functional leadership and business partners to identify opportunities, prioritize the product roadmap, and deliver timely support

Develop and lead a team responsible for delivering world-class availability solutions while simultaneously optimizing assortment by node

Foster a culture within the team which establishes best practices around discovery, optimization strategies, continuous/rapid testing & learning, with a relentless focus on delivering customer value

Continually evaluate and assess all operational and administrative processes and procedures, to identify, document and adopt best practices in alignment with our organizational objectives and strategic business plans

Build subject matter expertise in AAP product offerings, including any line reviews, quarterly assortment review, and rapid business reviews to better inform and optimize decision making and identify potential opportunities in assortment

Stay on top of competitive intelligence, customer insights and category strategies to close the gap and enhance our offerings

Be accountable for the financial impact of decisions related to assortment upgrades for Market Driven Availability initiatives, for both AAP stores and the strategic accounts

Invest time in coaching and developing talent on the team. Ensure team members are collaborating effectively and aligning with the goals for core merchandising and inventory management

Qualification

Assortment planningInventory managementCross-functional leadershipAnalytical skillsMicrosoft ExcelProject managementInterpersonal skillsCommunication skillsAttention to detailOrganizational skills

Required

Strong interpersonal and communication skills and ability to effectively present information and interact effectively across all levels of the organization; proven ability to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders across functions in order to achieve business/brand objectives and drive process improvement; experience in leading complex cross-functional teams

Proficient in Microsoft Office Software, especially advanced excel

Solid analytical skills required; ability to develop and communicate findings and recommendations, creating actionable strategies

Strong attention to detail, planning, and organizational skills

Ability to operate in a complex, rapidly changing environment while adhering to tight schedules

Ability to prioritize, delegate, and manage multiple teams and projects simultaneously - ensuring timely and accurate completion of each; outcome-focused and experienced in project management as a means to plan, track, communicate progress and ensure on time delivery of projects

Advanced understanding of the supply chain; ability to see the organization as an integrated whole and comprehend how each component contributes to the achievement of organizational goals and objectives

Bachelor's degree in Business, Mathematics or similar field

15+ years' experience in merchandising, assortment planning, inventory management or related functions

At least 5+ of these years in a leadership role; building, developing and leading teams

Or, equivalent combination of education and experience