What Does an Allocation Analyst Do?

Overseeing Inventory

Allocation analysts oversee their companies' inventories, specifically the complete catalogs of their stock. They often work in corporate retail. Allocation analysts monitor inventory to make sure the proper amounts of specific goods are available. They also do this to ensure the proper kinds of items are available, as well, with the necessary patterns, colors and sizes. If the medium-size, navy blue version of a certain sweater is selling especially well in the downtown Los Angeles branch of a boutique chain, it's the allocation analysts' job to make sure the store receives sufficient stock to satisfy demand, for example. If dark skirts are top sellers in that same branch during the summertime, the allocation analysts are supposed to take note of that, too. Allocation analysts carefully analyze the objectives of their companies and divisions. The aim is to always maintain inventory to make sure these objectives can come to fruition.

Researching Inventory

As analysts, professionals in this field conduct significant research as a means of assessing their inventory needs. They might study sales patterns for stores that carry their items in certain locations, for example. This information helps them decide how much inventory is necessary. It also helps them figure out which items do better than others. This assists them in pinpointing the necessary amounts for different merchandise. When certain items are flops, allocation analysts make note of that as a way of preventing wasting financial resources. Supervising distribution matters is a prominent duty for allocation analysts.

Sharing Research Findings

Once allocation analysts scrutinize their findings related to inventory, they're responsible for sharing their discoveries with other members of their companies, such as buyers, often through writing reports and leading group discussions. By doing this, they aid in the preparation of essential inventory -- and introduction of newer products -- further down the line. Assessment by allocation analysts often consists of pertinent financial particulars, too. Because allocation analysts are frequently in charge of setting up presentations of their data, they typically have to be adept in their use of key computer programs.

Anticipating Upcoming Trends

Since work as an allocation analyst involves delving into inventory needs, people with these jobs need to stay apprised of upcoming trends. If a certain clothing or jewelry item is on the verge of becoming a popular craze in stores, allocation analysts need to be able to predict that as early as possible. Doing this calls for staying updated on their specific industries, whether through attending events, reading trade publications or analyzing the public.