Job Description

With a career at The Home Depot, you can be yourself and also be part of something bigger.

Position Overview:

The Project Planning Specialist (PPS), Merchandising is responsible for leading the end-to-end planning and execution of merchandising projects across the organization. This role functions as the primary liaison for project timelines, communications, and cross-functional collaboration, ensuring alignment between strategic goals and in-store execution. The PPS partners closely with internal teams including Merchants, Store Planning, Procurement, Visual Merchandising, and Assortment Planning; to manage project scope, schedules, budgets, and risks. They are accountable for identifying opportunities to drive efficiencies, improve quality, and reduce costs. With a strong emphasis on detail, process improvement, and stakeholder engagement, the PPS ensures all merchandising initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management

Lead the planning and execution of all merchandising projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Manage project schedules, timelines, and team communications effectively. Ensure compliance with project deliverables and respond promptly to inquiries and feedback. Consistently monitor and manage project budgets throughout the planning process Lead in managing and updating the project management software Compass. Monitor and track project progress, ensuring quality standards and timelines are met. Create clear, concise, and consistent project instructions to drive clarity and avoid unnecessary work for field teams.

Communication & Collaboration

Serve as the central point of contact for all project-related activities, including scope, schedule, and budget oversight. Communicate critical project updates, risks, and milestones to stakeholders in a clear and timely manner. Build and maintain strong internal relationships to support effective project execution. Balance internal stakeholder expectations with field execution team requirements. Proactively engage field leaders and associates to gather feedback and insights, incorporating them into active and upcoming projects. Facilitate decision making by addressing risks and issues proactively and escalating when necessary

Process Improvement & Optimization

Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve quality, and streamline timelines across projects. Develop and deliver presentations and process improvements to internal and external stakeholders.

Competencies:

Collaborates Action Oriented Drives Results Communicates Effectively Plans and Aligns Customer Focus

Skills:

Strong project management skills with cross-functional coordination experience Excellent verbal and written communication; skilled in simplifying complex topics Proven ability to build and manage stakeholder relationships independently Analytical and critical thinker with strong problem-solving abilities Results-driven, action-oriented, and detail-focused Skilled in identifying risks and implementing sustainable solutions Influential leader with the ability to drive outcomes without formal authority Proficient in project management tools and generating actionable insights Strong sense of ownership and accountability in project planning and execution Effective probing skills to uncover project needs and support team Naturally curious, proactive, and adaptable under tight deadlines

Direct Manager/Direct Reports:

Reports to Manager of Project Planning This role does not have direct reports

Travel Requirements:

Limited Travel between offices, Innovation Centre, Stores, Vendor facilities

Physical Requirements:

Extended Sitting Repetitive Tasks

Hybrid Work:

Location Flex - Monday to Thursday at the SSC. Alternative locations including the Innovation Centre, or in-store as needed.

Working Conditions:

Working in an office setting: computer work, camera on virtual meetings, taking support calls. Working in a store /warehouse environment that can be dusty and noisy. Doors are frequently open, causing drafts and interior temperature changes.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Minimum Years of Work Experience:

N/A

Certifications:

N/A

Other Requirements/Assets:

Prior experience in retail or store merchandising strongly preferred. Project Management Certification or equivalent Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Background in process improvement methodologies (Six Sigma certification preferred: Green Belt or Black Belt). * Ability to generate actionable reports and insights to support proactive decision-making.