Nicole Washington
ATLANTA,GA
Summary
Experienced analyst with a proven track record at Old Navy, driving significant YOY growth through strategic inventory planning and demand forecasting. Proficient in data analysis, statistical modeling, and business intelligence tools. Utilizes analytical skills to identify trends and provide actionable insights to deliver strong business results.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Analyst, Merchandise Planner
Old Navy
08.2023 - Current
- Drove +8.2% YOY comp (5-year high) in Woven Tops by leveraging weekly KPI analysis to deliver actionable insights in Monday Business Reviews.
- Led in-season promotional and markdown strategy through optimized DR% management, protecting margin and reducing EOP liability; delivered +9.2% GM$ growth while expanding GM% YOY.
- Owned end-to-end buy planning for four Fast Capsule Collections across Women's Division and Funzone, managing 55k units and $700K inventory investment.
- Managed Open-to-Buy (OTB) forecasting and alignment to sales and margin targets; strategically increased Basics units available inventory +14%, driving +5.7% unit growth while managing sell-through within -6.4 pts YOY.
- Utilized WOH and service-level analysis to optimize inventory depth, replenishing fast turning core styles and correcting broken size runs through targeted PCL/chase strategies.
- 'Expanded Maternity scope to include pricing and in-season management, delivering +3.8% unit comp YOY; grew responsibility into Buy Planning ownership for Tops and Denim.
- Served as Localization Captain, leading Canada Deviations file for execution for Women's and Funcessories; partnered with US team to deliver hindsight insights that informed future assortment and investment decisions.
General Manager
Banana Republic
05.2011 - 08.2023
- Identified high potential talent and developed targeted succession and training plans; successfully promoted leaders from 2019-2022.
- Drove operational excellence, achieving 90% Omni performance scores through process optimization and accountability standards.
- Led weekly performance touch points with leadership team aligning merchandise strategy and customer engagement initiatives delivering a 12% lift in average transaction.
- Reduced leadership talent gaps in Atlanta district by developing internal bench strength and preparing leaders to fill critical roles.
- Directed end to end onboarding and leadership training for managers and field leaders, strengthening bench depth and standardizing operational performance.
Operations Manager, Stores China
Gap
08.2010 - 12.2010
- Coordinated cross-functional receiving, shipping, and administrative functions to ensure on-time, accurate deliveries to multiple locations across Shanghai and Beijin.
- Led warehouse operations driving productivity through staff training, performance management, and process improvements in high-volume environments.
- Managed and optimized shipment tracking and logistics systems, proactively identifying potential delays and mitigating risks.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
University California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CASkills
- Demand Forecasting & Inventory Planning
- Budgeting & Cost Analysis
- Product Life Cycle Management
- Development & Performance Coaching
- Excel proficiency
- Forecasting & Planning Software (eg, Anaplan)
Timeline
Analyst, Merchandise Planner
Old Navy
08.2023 - Current
General Manager
Banana Republic
05.2011 - 08.2023
Operations Manager, Stores China
Gap
08.2010 - 12.2010
Bachelor of Science - Sociology
University California Los Angeles