ESC has an exciting opportunity for a Business Analyst – Merchandise Operations to support our premier retail client’s Merchandise Operations and Master Data teams on a 4.5-month contract. This is a full-time hybrid position requiring 6 days/month onsite in Bolingbrook, IL. The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and a strong communicator with a solid understanding of merchandising, ecommerce, and supply chain systems. This role partners closely with Sr./Lead Business Analysts and IT to support system stability, data accuracy, and process improvement. You'll act as a key business liaison for Merchandise systems—supporting administration, documentation, ticket resolution, and UAT testing across platforms such as SAP and PIM. Success in this role requires a strong sense of accountability, the ability to troubleshoot effectively, and a passion for driving operational excellence in retail. Key Responsibilities • Act as the primary support contact for internal users of the Merchandise system, addressing system issues, requests, and documentation. • Troubleshoot and resolve system issues related to Merchandising, Ecommerce, and Master Data; escalate complex issues to IT or cross-functional partners. • Collaborate with IT and business teams to define and implement system enhancements and improvements. • Administer the Merchandise system, managing configurations, parameter changes, and format updates to ensure stability and performance. • Support UAT and QA testing for new system features and updates, including SAP and PIM environments. • Process and resolve daily work tickets, including invoice and master data issues, while adhering to SLAs and ensuring consistent resolution paths. • Assist with maintaining clean, consistent, and governed master data in alignment with enterprise data standards. • Translate business requirements into system documentation and support the end-user understanding of technical changes. • Identify root causes of system or process issues and propose data-driven, scalable solutions. • Contribute to cross-functional meetings and collaborate closely with key stakeholders in Merch Ops, MP&I, Ecommerce, and IT. Qualifications • 1–2 years of experience in business analysis, process improvement, or similar functions with demonstrated knowledge of retail systems. • Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) or equivalent work experience. • Working knowledge of merchandising, ecommerce, omni-channel, and/or supply chain systems and processes. • Ability to manage shifting priorities and tight deadlines while applying strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences. • Experience supporting systems or business teams in a high-volume, high-pressure environment. • Strong attention to detail and ability to draw insights across multiple data points or business processes. Nice to Have • Experience with SAP (S/4HANA preferred) and/or PIM/PXM systems. • Knowledge of SDLC methodologies and system implementation best practices. • Background in retail or merchandising, with a solid understanding of system workflows and data governance. • Proficient in cross-functional collaboration and working with technical teams. • Proven ability to simplify complex information for broader teams and stakeholders.