Overview This job contributes to REI’s success by supporting the planning, development, management, and execution of the large cross-divisional and multi-year program named “Merchandise Planning Transformation” (MPT). This program entails significant technology and business process transformation for the merchandising area of the REI Co-op and is a critical foundational enabler for both the Co-op’s ongoing operations as well as its planned strategic initiatives. The Business & Data Insights Senior Analyst is pivotal in driving data-informed decision making across the transformation journey, ensuring that data is a well-thought-out component of design, implementation and optimization of new planning processes and systems. This role is responsible for understanding all aspects of data that flows through merchandise planning processes, including the upstream/downstream processes and enterprise connectivity. The Business & Data Insights Senior Analyst will need to understand data requirements from a business perspective to partner on integrations, reporting, analytics, process improvement, performance metrics and data governance. As a key representative and direct partner with the business, this role will also partner closely with technology on design, testing, training, data validation, change management, deployment, KPI’s and ongoing process improvement. It’s expected that this role will work to be well connected across cross-divisional enterprise initiatives and identify key dependencies and convergence points. This role models and acts in accordance with REI’s guiding values and mission. Responsibilities and Qualifications Partner with technology to define and implement data strategy for the transformation program, ensuring alignment with enterprise data governance standards Identify key data sources and their business purpose and ensure data quality, consistency, and accessibility as part of design, testing, deployment and ongoing enhancements Develop and oversee inventory of data sources, owners, business purpose Develop data flow maps in partnership with Domain Architect and Solution architect Drive preliminary data readiness activities and oversee data mapping, data validation Translate complex data in clear insight for stakeholders at all levels Develop report, dashboard, and analytics inventory and drive transformation of these areas within new tools and processes in partnership with technology partner Identifies and tracks progress on key performance metrics Quickly makes sound recommendations when faced with ambiguity and uncertainty Works cross functionally with business partners, technology, vendors and other teams to ensure successful execution of the program Communicates status of data elements of the programs to management and stakeholders on a regular basis Coordinate and collaborate with business units and technology teams to ensure seamless integration of data and reporting capabilities into new systems Collaborates with change management team to incorporate impacts from data related areas including upskilling of business users in data literacy and analytics. Provide input into training for data related areas. Promote data-driven culture within planning and merchandising functions Manages Data Governance Stakeholder register and stakeholder management for the program Develops proven collaborative relationships with cross divisional partners to achieve positive project outcomes Establishes trust and inspires others to drive cross functional initiatives Foster the advancement of recommended methodologies, leading practices, and standards Keep abreast of industry standards related to data and data governance Acts as a source for direction, training, and guidance for less experienced staff Required 5+ years in merchandise planning, business analytics, data science or insight roles (preferably within retail) Proven understanding of merchandise planning processes, data sources, and KPIs Proven understanding of waterfall/Agile/Scrum methodology Experience working in transformation or change programs Ability to structure complex information and updates into succinct and digestible updates for communication, with ability to influence non-technical stakeholders Proven interpersonal skills – ability to work cross-divisional, communicate clearly and concisely, mediate meetings, and work through conflict Proven organizational skills and ability to structure complex project and program details for operational efficiency Ability to identify and analyze cross-functional and cross-divisional impacts and dependencies Experience with effectively setting up and utilizing tools such as Jira, Confluence, and Smartsheet Navigates complexity, conflicting opinions to drive meaningful progress Proven understanding of merchandising systems Passion for driving business change through data technology Builds capacity of individuals and teams through effective employee development, involvement, communication, and supervision efforts. Establishes trust and inspires others. Makes effective organization and people decisions in a manner consistent with REI's values and ethics. Delivers on commitments and holds others to same. Champions the organization and advocates solutions in the overall Company's best interest. Uses business knowledge, innovative thinking, and sound judgment in the solution of problems or the pursuit of business opportunities. Consolidates information from various sources including feedback from others to reach sound decisions. Considers the ultimate impact of decisions and actions on internal and external customers. Fosters change in company direction. Effectively plans and executes changes. Closing At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization. We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life. To work towards this commitment and fulfill our brand promise of inspiring and enabling a life outside for everyone, we seek employees who demonstrate different ways of working, create a sense of belonging, and actively listen and learn. Pay Transparency We are committed to practices that promote pay equity and transparency. As required by applicable Pay Transparency laws, REI provides a range of compensation for roles that may be hired in locations under these requirements. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include a wide array of factors, including: your specific skills and experience, geographic location or other relevant factors. REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan and accrued time off. Click here for a detailed overview of benefits plans by employee profile. Pay Range $98,300.00 - $157,400.00 per year