Experienced Remote Data Analyst for Merchandise Planning and Analytics Team – Utilizing Advanced Excel Skills for Retail Business Optimization

Introduction to blithequark

At blithequark, a global leader in retail pharmacy, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and products to our customers. Our Merchandise Planning Analytics team plays a crucial role in optimizing the performance of our Front End (non-Pharmacy) businesses. We are seeking a highly skilled Remote Analyst to join our team on a 6-month contract, with the opportunity for extension or conversion to a permanent position. As a Remote Analyst, you will have the chance to work with a talented team of professionals who are passionate about delivering results-driven analytics and insights to drive business growth.

Work Environment and Culture

At blithequark, we believe in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and flexibility. As a Remote Analyst, you will have the opportunity to work from the comfort of your own home, with a schedule that allows for flexibility and work-life balance. Our ideal candidate will be able to work independently, with minimal supervision, and be self-motivated to deliver high-quality results. The work environment will be 100% remote, with a requirement to work in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone. The standard working hours will be 8am-5pm, with a 9-hour day and a one-hour lunch break from 12pm-1pm. However, we understand that flexibility is essential, and we are open to discussing flexible hours that meet the business needs, with a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities

As a Remote Analyst, your primary responsibilities will include:

• Own Brand (private label) reporting, recapping, tracking, and analysis, including ad-hoc analysis based on business needs
• Item level historical analysis and recapping
• Item level future looking forecast
• Scope will be thousands of Own Brand items (at item level)
• Utilizing Excel as the primary system/tool for analysis and reporting
• Project will involve complex Excel formulas and the ability to synthesize large data sets into meaningful executive recaps

Essential Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need to possess the following essential qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree and at least 3-5 years of experience in one or more of the following: analytics, data science, finance, financial analysis, assortment planning, retail, procurement/purchasing, merchandising
• Minimum 3 years of experience in data analytics or other related field with a strong understanding of retail merchandising basics (i.e., category management) and merchandising organization structures and processes
• Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills, partnered with storytelling finesse
• Ability to conduct complex quantitative analysis and build analytical models using Microsoft Excel
• Ability to communicate effectively and succinctly both verbally and in writing via Microsoft PowerPoint
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to develop effective working relationships with Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and other stakeholders
• Ability to work independently and adapt to changing work priorities
• Retail math background; skills such as item level forecasting based on demand patterns or sell-through/sales/profit goals, knowledge of sales by type and AUR impacts, all inventory and sales metrics
• Intermediate/Advanced level skill in Microsoft Excel (for example: using SUM/SUMIFS, Subtotals, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, Macros, Pivot tables) - CRITICAL SKILL NEEDED FOR ROLE, most work will be done in Excel
• Intermediate level skill in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint

Preferred Qualifications

While not essential, the following qualifications are highly desirable:

• MBA preferred; Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and/or other quantitative analytical degree a plus
• Data science experience
• Retail experience
• SQL Coding, Microsoft Access, Macro building

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At blithequark, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Remote Analyst, you will have access to a range of training and development opportunities, including:

• Professional development programs to enhance your analytical and technical skills
• Opportunities to work on high-impact projects that drive business growth and innovation
• Collaboration with a talented team of professionals who are passionate about delivering results-driven analytics and insights
• Flexible working arrangements that allow for work-life balance and autonomy

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

At blithequark, we offer a competitive compensation package that includes a range of perks and benefits, such as:

• Competitive salary and bonus structure
• Comprehensive health and wellness program
• Flexible working arrangements and remote work options
• Opportunities for professional development and growth
• Access to a range of employee discounts and perks

Conclusion

If you are a highly motivated and analytical professional with a passion for delivering results-driven insights, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to join our team as a Remote Analyst. At blithequark, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and flexibility, and we believe that this role will provide you with the opportunity to grow and develop your skills in a dynamic and supportive environment. Don't miss out on this chance to join our team and contribute to the success of our business. Apply now to take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career with blithequark.