Job Description
GENERAL SUMMARY The Associate Buyer supports and contributes to the creation and implementation of the merchandise strategy for the Exclusive Brands department. This position also takes responsibility for a sub class or group of sub-classes with Buyer's oversight. The role partners with Planning and Marketing teams to drive sales; synthesizes information, reaches conclusions and develops a course of action.
REPORTS TO: Buyer
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: *Responsible for buying one or more categories and managing OTB *Analyzes selling reports, recommends actions, and oversees those actions by managing follow-up *Manages assigned business day to day activities including responding to current business trends and financial architecture pre-season and in-season *Researches NPD data competitive intelligence, trend observations and style/color analysis to drive decision making *Communicates with Sourcing team to track ship and delivery, identifies ship issues, makes recommendations to resolve and oversees those actions by managing follow-up with cross-functional team *Works cross functionally to align on key item strategy, executes both preseason and in season strategy while staying close with Planning and Sourcing *Presents product and brand assortment to leadership *Collaborates with Marketing team on selection; collaborates with Buying Specialist or Merch Clerk on sample ordering *Participates in and documents information in monthly and/or quarterly product hind sights *Works with Senior Buyer or Buyer to strategize the annual and seasonal financial plans; collaborates with Merchandise Planning on product or category direction based on market direction or sales trend *Identifies key items and collaborates with Merchandise Planning on sales/receipts and unit flows; references historic data *Maintain and build strong cross-functional relationships *Proactively seek out opportunities to grow the business and further personal & professional development
REQUIRED SKILLS: *Strong attention to detail and highly organized *Excellent communication, both written and verbal, and follow up skills *Strong analytical skills *Team player *Developing negotiation skills
EXPERIENCE: *Previous Retail Experience a plus
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: *Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel and Word skills *Ability to learn Microstrategy and other merchant computer based systems
EDUCATION: *Minimum Bachelor's Degree in Retail Merchandising, Marketing or Business related field
