Buyer - Trading Cards

Description:

SUMMARY:

The Buyer – Trading Cards is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing inventory of trading card games (TCGs) such as Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Yu-Gi-Oh! This role requires strong vendor negotiation skills, market knowledge, and a passion for collectible card games to ensure the company maintains a competitive product assortment, optimized margins, and in-demand releases for both eCommerce and retail channels. This role is onsite; however, we will consider remote for the right candidate!

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Source, purchase, and replenish trading card inventory across Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and other emerging TCGs.
• Forecast demand, track market trends, and plan purchases around new releases, expansions, and limited editions.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor, distributor, and publisher relationships to secure allocations and favorable terms.
• Monitor sales performance, sell-through rates, and adjust purchasing strategies to maximize profitability.
• Manage preorder allocations and ensure on-time product availability for key launches.
• Collaborate with marketing and merchandising teams on promotions, featured releases, and product positioning.
• Stay current with TCG community trends, organized play events, and secondary market dynamics.
• Ensure accurate product setup, descriptions, and pricing in eCommerce platforms.
• Manage inventory levels to minimize overstocks and shortages.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2–4+ years of buying, merchandising, or category management experience (retail or eCommerce).
• Knowledge and passion for trading card games (Pokémon, MTG, Yu-Gi-Oh!) strongly preferred.
• Strong negotiation, vendor management, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent analytical skills with proficiency in Excel/Sheets and reporting tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, product-driven environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Requirements:

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience managing the product development life cycle and managing outside manufacturers
• Experience working with a mid-large size online retailer
• Experience in the Toy and Hobby industry is a plus

JOB CONDITIONS:

• Repetitive office work including typing, using a computer mouse and telephone.
• Sitting time: 75%+
• Uses hands 75%+
• Meeting and phone use: 25%+
• Moderate noise – Office environment with computers, printers and light traffic.