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Position Overview:

The Project Planning Specialist (PPS), Merchandising is responsible for leading the end-to-end planning and execution of merchandising projects across the organization. This role functions as the primary liaison for project timelines, communications, and cross-functional collaboration, ensuring alignment between strategic goals and in-store execution. The PPS partners closely with internal teams including Merchants, Store Planning, Procurement, Visual Merchandising, and Assortment Planning; to manage project scope, schedules, budgets, and risks. They are accountable for identifying opportunities to drive efficiencies, improve quality, and reduce costs. With a strong emphasis on detail, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement, the PPS ensures all merchandising initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management

• Lead the planning and execution of all merchandising projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Manage project schedules, timelines, and team communications effectively.
• Ensure compliance with project deliverables and respond promptly to inquiries and feedback.
• Consistently monitor and manage project budgets throughout the planning process
• Lead in managing and updating the project management software Compass. Monitor and track project progress, ensuring quality standards and timelines are met.
• Create clear, concise, and consistent project instructions to drive clarity and avoid unnecessary work for field teams.

Communication & Collaboration

• Serve as the central point of contact for all project-related activities, including scope, schedule, and budget oversight.
• Communicate critical project updates, risks, and milestones to stakeholders in a clear and timely manner.
• Build and maintain strong internal relationships to support effective project execution.
• Balance internal stakeholder expectations with field execution team requirements.
• Proactively engage field leaders and associates to gather feedback and insights, incorporating them into active and upcoming projects.
• Facilitate decision making by addressing risks and issues proactively and escalating when necessary

Process Improvement & Optimization

• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve quality, and streamline timelines across projects.
• Develop and deliver presentations and process improvements to internal and external stakeholders.

Competencies:

• Collaborates
• Action Oriented
• Drives Results
• Communicates Effectively
• Plans and Aligns
• Customer Focus

Skills:

• Strong project management skills with cross-functional coordination experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication; skilled in simplifying complex topics
• Proven ability to build and manage stakeholder relationships independently
• Analytical and critical thinker with strong problem-solving abilities
• Results-driven, action-oriented, and detail-focused
• Skilled in identifying risks and implementing sustainable solutions
• Influential leader with the ability to drive outcomes without formal authority
• Proficient in project management tools and generating actionable insights
• Strong sense of ownership and accountability in project planning and execution
• Effective probing skills to uncover project needs and support team
• Naturally curious, proactive, and adaptable under tight deadlines

Direct Manager/Direct Reports:

• Reports to Manager of Project Planning
• This role does not have direct reports

Travel Requirements:

• Limited
• Travel between offices, Innovation Centre, Stores, Vendor facilities

Physical Requirements:

• Extended Sitting
• Repetitive Tasks

Hybrid Work:

• Location Flex – Monday to Thursday at the SSC. Alternative locations including the Innovation Centre, or in-store as needed.

Working Conditions:

• Working in an office setting: computer work, camera on virtual meetings, taking support calls.
• Working in a store /warehouse environment that can be dusty and noisy. Doors are frequently open, causing drafts and interior temperature changes.

Minimum Education:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Minimum Years of Work Experience:

• N/A

Certifications:

• N/A

Other Requirements/Assets:

• Prior experience in retail or store merchandising strongly preferred.
• Project Management Certification or equivalent
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Background in process improvement methodologies (Six Sigma certification preferred: Green Belt or Black Belt).
• Ability to generate actionable reports and insights to support proactive decision-making.