**Experienced Entry-Level Data Analyst – Retail Merchandising and 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 analytics, with experience in data analysis and reporting? 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 success by analyzing 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 the comfort of your own home, with a 100% remote work arrangement. Our team operates in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone, and we require a minimum of 30 hours per week to fulfill our business needs. You will work a standard 8am-5pm schedule, with a one-hour lunch break from 12pm-1pm. While we offer flexibility, we expect our team members to be available and responsive during core hours. **Responsibilities** As a Remote Analyst, your primary responsibilities will include: * Owning and managing Own Brand (private label) reporting, recapping, tracking, and analysis, including ad-hoc analysis based on business needs * Conducting item-level historical analysis and recapping, as well as future-looking forecasting * Working with thousands of Own Brand items at the item level, using Excel to analyze and synthesize large data sets into meaningful executive recaps * Developing complex Excel formulas and models to support business decisions * Communicating effectively and succinctly with stakeholders, both verbally and in writing, using Microsoft PowerPoint * Managing and prioritizing multiple assignments and meeting tight deadlines * Developing effective working relationships with Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and other stakeholders * Working independently and adapting to changing work priorities **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 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, including the use of 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 will need: * 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 on complex projects, develop your analytical skills, and contribute to the success of our Merchandise Planning Analytics team. We offer a competitive compensation package, including: * Competitive hourly rate * Opportunities for career growth and professional development * Flexible work arrangements, including 100% remote work * Collaborative and dynamic work environment * Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies * Opportunities for professional networking and development **How to Apply** If you are a motivated and analytical individual with a passion for data-driven insights, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application through our website, including your resume, cover letter, and any relevant work samples or certifications. We look forward to hearing from you! Apply Job! Apply for this job