Sr. Manager, Merchandise Planning & Supply Chain Management (Project Hire)

JOB SUMMARY:

The Manager of Merchandise Planning & Supply Chain Management will own the design and implementation of the future-state supply and demand planning, replenishment/allocation, and logistics integration, ensuring plans are realistic, executable, and aligned with the Guest experience and financial goals.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• End-to-End Planning Process Design:
  • Map current demand planning, supply planning, purchasing, allocation, and replenishment processes across parks, DCs, outlets, and e-commerce.
  • Design the future state integrated planning flow: how forecasts are generated and approved, how supply plans and buys are created, and how stock is allocated and replenished across the network.
  • Define clear roles, responsibilities, and hand-offs between Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Merch, DC Operations, Logistics, and Stores/Parks, including meeting cadences and approval points.
• Policy and Parameter Framework:
  • Establish service level and stock policies (e.g., target availability levels, safety stock approaches) by product/channel/park.
  • Define the parameter strategy for planning (calendars, lead times, order frequencies, min/max, lot sizes) and clarify who owns and maintains which parameters.
  • Embed event-driven and seasonal realities (special events, new attractions, peak periods, weather sensitivity) into planning rules and scenarios.
• Solution Design & Testing:
  • Lead design workshops for demand and supply planning, allocation, and replenishment; translate business needs into configuration requirements.
  • Define test scenarios and scripts for planning and supply modules, including edge cases like supply disruptions, demand surges, and event misses.
  • Oversee UAT for planning and supply capabilities, manage defects and change requests, and sign off that processes and tools are ready for go-live.
• Operational Readiness, Training & Stabilization:
  • Create “day in the life” scenarios for planners, buyers, DC, and logistics teams in the new tools and processes, and use them as the basis for training.
  • Develop playbooks for common issues (short shipments, late containers, event risk, over stock/off price triggers) that show how to respond using the new capabilities.
  • Track early KPIs post go-live (availability, inventory, turns, expediting costs, fulfilment performance) and lead stabilization and continuous improvement cycles.
• Network and Logistics Integration:
  • Document constraints and characteristics of the physical network: vendor lead times and MOQs, DC capacities, transport lanes, and transit times.
  • Ensure planning processes and system configuration reflect these constraints so system outputs are executable in the real network.
  • Partner with Logistics and DC Ops to design and test key flows (new product introductions, seasonal builds, outlet / liquidation flows, emergency replenishment).
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Retail Management, or related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• 7+ years of experience in merchandise planning, strategy, or retail operations.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives or new market entries
• Knowledge of global supply chain processes, vendor management, and import logistics.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.
• Requires meetings with global partners outside normal business hours.
• Strong analytical and financial acumen; expert proficiency in Excel and planning tools (Oracle, SAP, etc.).
• Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Collaborative innovator focused on building scalable, future-proof solutions.
• Passion for theme park or entertainment retail and understanding of consumer experience-driven environments.
• Comfortable working in dynamic, fast-paced environments with evolving strategic priorities.

 

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Products & Experiences Overview:
Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) globally drives the expansion a