Sr. Financial Analyst, Retail

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward. 

This position is HYBRID in our Columbus, OH office.

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, we’re not just forecasting numbers—we’re forecasting what’s next. As a  Senior Financial Analyst, DSW Demand , you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our digital business. This is more than a behind-the-scenes role; it’s a front-row seat to the decision-making that drives our customer experience, inventory strategy, and financial performance.

You’ll work closely with cross-functional teams—from Merchandising and Marketing to Fulfillment and Store Operations—translating data into insights that fuel smarter strategies. If you’re someone who thrives on solving complex problems, loves diving into data, and wants to make a visible impact, this is your chance to step into a role where your voice matters and your work drives results.

What You’ll Be Doing

Demand Forecasting & Sales Planning

• Develop and maintain daily, weekly, and monthly demand forecasts using a bottoms-up approach.
• Incorporate key inputs such as base trends, promotional activity, and selling metrics to ensure forecasts are accurate and actionable.

Order Strategy & Inventory Alignment

• Translate demand forecasts into optimal order quantities.
• Ensure alignment with inventory strategies and operational capabilities to support business goals.

Financial Oversight & Budget Management

• Lead financial planning and oversight for key cost areas, including budgeting, tracking, and variance analysis.
• Monitor performance against financial goals and identify opportunities for cost optimization.

Business Performance & Reporting

• Deliver timely daily and weekly performance reports to support business recaps.
• Analyze trends, identify risks and opportunities, and provide recommendations to improve outcomes.

Strategic Planning & Earnings Support

• Prepare financial materials for internal and external quarterly earnings processes.
• Own the annual budgeting process for DSW Demand and Net Sales, collaborating with partners to align assumptions and build a comprehensive financial plan.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Build strong, collaborative relationships with stakeholders across the business.
• Communicate financial insights clearly and influence decision-making through data-driven storytelling.

What You’ll Need

Core Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in Financial Planning & Analysis, preferably in a retail environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.

Key Skills

• Strong background in forecasting, financial modeling, and data analysis.
• Ability to synthesize data from multiple sources into clear, actionable insights.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical mindset with exceptional attention to detail.
• Self-starter with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• A continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational efficiency.

Tools & Technology

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including model building and complex formulas.
• Experience with business intelligence tools (e.g., MSI) is a plus.
• Familiarity with financial systems such as Lawson, EPM, or similar platforms is preferred.

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy! 

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at .

• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work. 

• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives. 

• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & DSW.com , plus discounts across our family of brands.