**Experienced Entry-Level Data Entry Clerk / Remote Analyst – Retail Merchandise Planning Analytics**

Are you a detail-oriented and analytical individual with a passion for data-driven insights? Do you have a strong background in retail merchandising and a knack for storytelling with numbers? If so, we invite you to join blithequark's Merchandise Planning Analytics team as a Remote Analyst for a 6-month contract with the opportunity for extension or conversion. **About blithequark** blithequark is a global leader in retail pharmacy, dedicated to providing innovative solutions and exceptional customer experiences. Our Merchandise Planning Analytics team plays a critical role in driving business growth and optimizing performance across our Front End (non-Pharmacy) businesses. As a Remote Analyst, you will be part of a dynamic team that supports over 100 merchants and 40 planners, working together to achieve our business objectives. **Work Environment** As a Remote Analyst, you will have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone. Our team operates from 8am to 5pm, with a one-hour lunch break from 12pm to 1pm. While we offer flexibility, we require a minimum of 30 hours per week to fulfill our business needs. This role is ideal for individuals who value work-life balance and are self-motivated to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality results. **Responsibilities** As a Remote Analyst, you will be responsible for: * Owning 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 * Managing thousands of Own Brand items at the item level * Utilizing Microsoft Excel to analyze complex data sets and build analytical models * Developing effective working relationships with Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and other stakeholders * Communicating insights and recommendations through clear and concise reports and presentations * Managing multiple assignments and meeting tight deadlines * Adapting to changing work priorities and working independently **Top Must-Have Skills** To succeed in this role, you will need: * A 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 a 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, paired 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, including 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, including SUM/SUMIFS, Subtotals, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, Macros, and Pivot tables **Top Nice-to-Have Skills** While not required, the following skills 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 **Education / Experience Requirements** To be considered for this role, you should have: * 3-5 years of experience in Analytics or Data Science, with a Merchandising background **What We Offer** As a Remote Analyst at blithequark, you will have the opportunity to: * Work with a dynamic team that supports business growth and optimization * Develop your analytical and problem-solving skills, paired with storytelling finesse * Utilize Microsoft Excel to analyze complex data sets and build analytical models * Communicate insights and recommendations through clear and concise reports and presentations * Work independently and adapt to changing work priorities * Enjoy a flexible work environment with a minimum of 30 hours per week * Participate in ongoing learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge **Compensation and Benefits** We offer a competitive compensation package, including: * A salary commensurate with experience * Opportunities for professional growth and development * A comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance * A 401(k) retirement plan with company match * Paid time off and holidays **How to Apply** If you are a motivated and analytical individual with a passion for data-driven insights, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and qualifications for this role. We look forward to hearing from you! Apply Now! Apply for this job