Space Planning Analyst

Position Summary

Big Lots is now hiring a Space Planning Analyst.  This role supports the Manager of Store Operations by providing content and guidance for the Weekly Planner, Quick Hits, and general merchandising direction. In addition, the role supports the Director of Store Operations with composing store communications and initiatives, as well as preparing and distributing those communications. The position is responsible for developing and delivering clear, effective store communications and merchandise presentation guidance to improve assortment productivity, align with merchandising strategy, and enhance the customer shopping experience. Approximately 75% of the role is focused on store communications and merchandise presentation and 25% on CAD store layout planning. The individual partners with Store Operations, Merchandising, Loss Prevention, and other cross-functional teams to establish visual standards, optimize execution, and ensure timely delivery of store initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Create and update communications that provide clear merchandising direction and support assortment productivity.
• Partner with Store Operations leadership, Buyers, and Loss Prevention to establish and maintain visual standards, guidelines, and policies.
• Develop merchandising guidance that aligns with Buyer intent and reduces time required for store execution.
• Manage the creation, review, and approval of merchandise guidance, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure execution consistency, share best practices, and recommend process improvements.
• Serve as a coach on space planning and presentation processes, providing subject matter expertise.
• Participate in enterprise projects and special initiatives as requested by leadership.
• Represent Store Operations/Merchandising in corporate initiatives and cross-functional projects.
• Attend assortment and merchandising meetings to capture key updates and translate them into store communications (weekly planner, quick hits, etc.).
• Maintain and audit the Store SharePoint site to ensure timely, relevant posting of communications and marketing materials.
• Update existing floor plans and create new layouts using CAD software, ensuring merchandise adjacencies and fixture placement are accurately reflected.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Minimum 5 years of transferable retail experience in communications, space management/CAD, merchandising, assortment, merchandise planning, or store leadership.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, AutoCAD).
• CAD experience required, with the ability to update floor plans and produce store layouts.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally across all levels of the organization as well as work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent time management, organization, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of retail merchandising principles, assortment planning, and visual presentation standards.