Experienced Full Stack Business Analyst – Merchandise Planning and Analytics for Retail Operations at Blithequark

Join Blithequark as a Remote Business Analyst and Drive Retail Excellence

Blithequark, a global leader in retail pharmacy, is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Business Analyst to join our Merchandise Planning Analytics team on a 6-month contract with the opportunity for extension or conversion. As a Remote Analyst, you will play a critical role in supporting our Merchandising team by managing reporting, analysis, and tool building to optimize performance across our Front End (non-Pharmacy) businesses.

About Blithequark and Our Industry

Blithequark operates in the dynamic retail pharmacy sector, where data-driven insights are crucial for driving business success. Our Merchandise Planning Analytics team is at the forefront of this effort, working closely with merchants and planners to analyze sales trends, forecast demand, and inform strategic decisions. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to work with a talented group of professionals who are passionate about using data to drive retail excellence.

Work Environment

We offer a flexible, remote work environment that allows you to work from anywhere while maintaining a strong connection with our team. Here are the details:

• 100% remote work arrangement
• Must work in Central Standard Time (CST)
• 8am-5pm (9-hour day with a 1-hour lunch break from 12pm-1pm)
• Flexible hours, with a minimum of 30 hours per week to meet business needs

Key Responsibilities

As a Business Analyst at Blithequark, you will be responsible for:

• Developing and maintaining comprehensive reports, recaps, and analyses for our Own Brand (private label) products, including ad-hoc analysis to address business needs
• Conducting item-level historical analysis and recapping to inform strategic decisions
• Building item-level future-looking forecasts to drive business growth
• Working with thousands of Own Brand items at the item level, using Excel as our primary system/tool
• Applying complex Excel formulas and synthesizing large data sets into meaningful executive recaps
• Collaborating with Merchandising, Planning, Finance, and other stakeholders to develop effective working relationships
• Prioritizing and managing multiple assignments to meet tight deadlines
• Working independently and adapting to changing work priorities

Essential Qualifications and Skills

To succeed in this role, you will need:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., analytics, data science, finance, financial analysis, assortment planning, retail, procurement/purchasing, merchandising)
• At least 3-5 years of experience in analytics, data science, or a related field, with a strong understanding of retail merchandising basics and organization structures/processes

Analytical and Technical Skills

• Outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to communicate complex insights effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, with intermediate to advanced skills in:
  • Using SUM/SUMIFS, Subtotals, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, Macros, and Pivot tables
  • Building complex Excel formulas and synthesizing large data sets
• Intermediate-level skills in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint
• Retail math background, with skills such as item-level forecasting based on demand patterns or sell-through/sales/profit goals

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication and storytelling skills, with the ability to convey complex insights to executive-level stakeholders
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments, meeting tight deadlines
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop effective working relationships
• Adaptability and flexibility, with the ability to work independently and adjust to changing priorities

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

While not required, the following qualifications and skills are highly desirable:

• MBA or a quantitative analytical degree (e.g., Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Data science experience, with skills in SQL coding, Microsoft Access, or macro building
• Retail experience, with a deep understanding of merchandising organization structures and processes

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At Blithequark, we are committed to the growth and development of our team members. As a Business Analyst, you will have access to:

• Professional training and development opportunities
• Mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals
• Cross-functional collaboration and exposure to various aspects of our business
• Opportunities for career advancement and growth within the company

Work Environment and Company Culture

At Blithequark, we pride ourselves on a dynamic and supportive work environment that values:

• Collaboration and teamwork
• Innovation and creativity
• Diversity and inclusion
• Work-life balance and flexibility

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes:

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Opportunities for bonuses and performance-based incentives
• Flexible work arrangements and remote work options
• Professional development and growth opportunities

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and detail-oriented Business Analyst with a passion for retail and data analysis, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity at Blithequark. As a Remote Analyst, you will play a critical role in driving business success and growth, while enjoying a flexible and supportive work environment. Don't miss this chance to join our team and take your career to the next level!