Milena Schaefer

About Milena Schaefer

I operate at the intersection of business, AI, and data—helping organizations turn complexity into scalable, high-performing operations.With 25+ years of experience across strategy, operations, and planning, I focus on embedding AI and data-driven capabilities into everyday workflows to improve decision-making, speed, and efficiency.My work centers on identifying high-impact AI use cases, automating non-value-added work, and shifting teams from reporting to insight-driven execution. I prioritize practical application—integrating AI into core processes like planning, forecasting, and performance management where it drives measurable impact.I believe transformation only works when the fundamentals are in place. Clean data, clear processes, and strong governance are critical to scaling AI and sustaining results.I’ve built and led high-performing teams, streamlined complex workflows, and developed integrated business planning processes across functions and partners. I’m known for bringing clarity to ambiguity, aligning stakeholders, and translating strategy into execution.My perspective is grounded in experience and continuous learning, including programs at Harvard, Wharton, and NYU.

Experience

1. Senior Director

   Fanatics

   Sep 2025 — Present

   At Fanatics, I lead the merchandise planning efforts for several leagues in the e-commerce space, utilizing AI to streamline processes and boost operational efficiency. My role requires close collaboration with various teams to ensure our strategies adapt to market trends and that inventory is managed effectively.

Education

• Harvard Business Analytics Program

  Business Analytics

  2018 — 2019

• Stony Brook University

  Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Business Administration, Management and Operations

  1993 — 1997

• New York University

  MS, Management and Systems, Strategy & Leadership

  2008 — 2011

• The Wharton School

  Global Leadership Program

  2016 — 2016

Skills

• Product Development
• Leadership
• Apparel
• Store Management
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Sportswear
• Forecasting
• Strategic Thinking
• Change Management
• Retail
• Trend Analysis
• Inventory Management
• Brand Development
• Management
• Private Label
• Merchandising
• Strategy
• E-Commerce
• Strategic Planning
• Demand Supply Planning
• Visual Merchandising
• Business Process Improvement
• Go-to-Market Strategy
• Trend
• Digital Strategy
• Fashion
• Operational Planning
• Sales
• Wholesale
• Project Management
• Project Planning
• Wovens
• Analytics