VP, Merchandising Strategy and Planning Position Available In Orange, North Carolina

Overview Fleet Feet is seeking a Vice President of Merchandising Strategy and Planning to lead our merchandising, buying, and inventory management functions across company-owned stores and eCommerce channels. You will lead the entire product lifecycle from pre-season assortment planning and in-season buying to store-level inventory optimization and visual merchandising, ensuring every product decision enhances the customer experience and supports financial objectives. Based out of our headquarters in Carrboro, NC, this role follows a hybrid work schedule and requires a local presence for in-office collaboration. As the senior leader responsible for product planning and vendor partnerships, you’ll own our merchandising roadmap from pre-season assortment planning and real-time inventory execution to visual merchandising and store-level inventory optimization. You ll lead and mentor a high-performing team, drive enterprise-wide alignment, and ensure our merchandising decisions reflect the values, strategy, and mission of Fleet Feet. With over 270 stores and a leading e-commerce platform, Fleet Feet is the largest running retailer in the country. We believe Running Changes Everything, and we re looking for a leader who shares our commitment to service, innovation, and community. Responsibilities Merchandising Strategy and Planning Lead pre-season assortment planning and category architecture development to meet seasonal objectives. Own category-level Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning and execution. Align product strategy with insights from Retail Operations, Digital, and Marketing teams. Drive vendor management strategies to ensure a balanced, productive brand and product mix. Perform competitive market analysis to uncover innovation and white-space opportunities. Champion ongoing assortment efficiency via performance reviews and refinements. Lead monthly Sales & Operations Planning meetings to align financial and inventory targets. Lead the Go-To-Market process to ensure cross-functional readiness and execution. Manage financial risk through strategic purchasing and inventory forecasting. In-Season Buying and Execution Responsible for bulk purchasing, PO management, and product flow to Distribution Centers (DCs) and stores. Lead in-season decision-making based on real-time sales performance and inventory metrics (Weeks of Supply). Align planning and allocation teams to ensure smooth launches, replenishment, and product flow. Direct strategies to mitigate SLOB (slow-moving and obsolete inventory) and optimize inventory health. Retail Inventory Management Guide store inventory planning to ensure optimal supply based on demand forecasts and space constraints. Lead the development and evolution of allocation models for effective product distribution. Align field and corporate teams through collaboration with District Managers and Operating Partners. Lead store-level optimization initiatives (RTV programs, markdowns, transfers, liquidation). Partner with Store Support Team on special inventory strategies for expos, events, and brand activations. Visual Merchandising Leadership Set a visual merchandising strategy to ensure a compelling, brand-right in-store presentation. Partner with store design and marketing to develop floor sets, planograms, and storytelling moments. Use visual merchandising to enhance conversion, reinforce brand identity, and elevate customer experience. Ensure executional consistency across retail locations through strong field alignment. Leadership and Collaboration Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of merchants, buyers, and planners. Champion a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Finance, Retail Ops, and Digital teams. Contribute to the long-term merchandising strategy aligned with Fleet Feet s brand and mission. Qualifications 10+ years of experience in merchandising, planning, and inventory management (footwear, apparel, or sporting goods preferred). 5+ years in a senior leadership role managing cross-functional retail or merchandising teams. Demonstrated success in assortment strategy, vendor negotiation, and inventory optimization. Strong analytical and financial skills; able to convert insights into strategy and action. Excellent communication and collaboration skills across departments and levels. Experience with ERP systems and merchandising tools (NetSuite experience is a plus). Bachelor s degree in Business, Merchandising, or related field; MBA preferred.

Why You’ll Love It Here:

At Fleet Feet, Running Changes Everything, and we live that every day by serving communities through movement, connection, and purpose. We champion an inclusive, upbeat culture where innovation thrives and people are empowered to lead. Lead with purpose in a brand that values movement, connection, and service Work alongside passionate and collaborative teammates Influence the customer journey across a leading omnichannel retail business Be part of a values-driven organization where innovation and inclusion go hand-in-hand See the direct impact of your leadership in stores, online, and across the community

Benefits:

At Fleet Feet, we provide more than just a job-we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make a meaningful impact. Here s what you can look forward to: Robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and more 401(k) Retirement Plan available to all part- and full-time employees (age 21+) with 4% employer match and immediate vesting at company-owned stores Professional development opportunities such as mentorship programs, talent development initiatives, employee resource groups, and monthly learning sessions on a variety of topics Training and advancement opportunities within the Fleet Feet brand Community involvement through volunteer and service activities that connect our teams to local causes Exclusive discounts on training programs and products Collaborative culture with passionate, mission-driven teammates Check out our Fleet Feet Benefits Summary for full-time employees averaging 30+ hours/week at company-owned stores

Join Us:

If you’re ready to lead merchandising strategy for the largest running retailer in the country and help us drive growth and customer delight across every channel, we d love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of retail at Fleet Feet. We are an equal opportunity employer and believe having teams in which everyone brings their whole self to Fleet Feet is key to our success. We encourage people of all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. Our dedication to inclusion is reflected in our hiring practices, workplace culture, and community engagement. If you require reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process or to perform the essential functions of this role, please contact us at jobs@fleetfeet.com . Fleet Feet utilizes E-Verify in all corporate and company-operated stores as part of the hiring process. PDN-9ef41721-a278-4cb6-a539-68cfe5901cad