Buyers are responsible for the overall merchandising direction of a category or department(s) with the goal of meeting/ exceeding sales, margin and turn targets. Buyers maintain a singular focus on the product and customer by incorporating competitive intelligence, customer insight, and business analysis. Buyers are responsible for the purchase and negotiation of merchandise as well as the open to buy process. Buyers partner with Planners to develop strategies to maximize business opportunities.
Essential Function
Develop and execute merchandise strategies and assortment plans, based on customer feedback and preferences, to deliver financial goals and business objectives
Analyzes business to the lowest level to identify opportunities in sales, inventory, and margin by store, department, and class
Reacts to business trends in a timely and efficient manner and feedback based on store and customer needs
Creates all necessary analysis based on trends
Works with Planner and Allocator during the planning process: in-season planning & revisions, assortment plans, store plans
Identifies opportunities to improve overall plan quality
Communicates effectively with all merchandising levels
Communicates effectively with stores and vendors
Build and maintain strong partnerships with vendors and cross-functional partners
Select merchandise; negotiate best costs and delivery of product
Manage all aspects of product placement, marketing and pricing/markdowns
Negotiate vendor allowances, returns, advertising co-op, and other terms as needed
Identify business opportunities and risks in-season through analyzing sales performance and gathering marketplace information; implement strategies to ensure plans are achieved
Partner with Advertising and DMM to develop promotional strategies and identify key items or classifications that drive profitable sales and communicate compelling messages to customers
Build a high quality merchandising team by developing partnerships, leading, coaching and providing constructive feedback
Leverages open-to-buy process to manage business in-season and maximize opportunities
Travels to all necessary markets and store trips
Ability to articulate and provide thought process behind solutions and strategic plans
Identifying emerging trends and shopping competition and market regularly
Required for All Jobs
- Performs other duties as assigned
- Complies with all policies and standards
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Bachelor's Degree in Apparel Merchandising, Retail Studies, Marketing or Business preferred.
WORK EXPERIENCE
7-9 years retail experience; Required
3+ years retail buying; Required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Proficient in business-related computer software (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel)
Excellent analytical and reasoning skills
Clear retail math skills
Maintains professionalism in work relationships and habits
Demonstrates strong listening, written and oral communication skills
Is multi-task oriented to meet deadlines.
Possesses strong merchandising, product and marketing skills
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Available and able to travel
- Able to see and distinguish colors
- Able to lift up to 25 pounds
Pay Range
$90,000 - $155,000
Reflected is the base pay range offered for this position. Pay may vary depending on factors including but not limited to achievements, skills, experience, or work location. The range listed is just one component of the compensation package offered to candidates.
#LI-SE1
#IND3
#LI-HYBRID