Associate Buyer: HBA / Cosmetics (Relocation Supported)

About the role

The Associate Buyer - HBA/Cosmetics role at Ocean State Job Lot ("OSJL" and "Company") serves as a trusted backup to the Buyers, focusing on the Specialty HBA and Cosmetics segment. This role collaborates closely with the Replenishment and Planning and Allocation teams to ensure the flow of high-quality products that meet customer needs.

Responsibilities

• Independently exercise discretion in financial matters, including "open to buy" ("OTB"), profitability, and inventory turn for the Specialty HBA and Cosmetics product area.
• Assist the Buyer in developing and executing buying strategies to increase sales and maximize profitability specifically within the HBA/Cosmetics segment.
• Conduct thorough product research, evaluate market trends, and gather competitive intelligence to identify growth opportunities, especially for new and emerging HBA/Cosmetics brands and trending Cosmetics.
• Establish new HBA/Cosmetics categories and support the rebuying and maintenance of established, high-performing specialty items.
• Own the product flow from initial planning and PO creation to final delivery, ensuring timely and efficient product availability to meet demand, especially for time-sensitive seasonal or promotional beauty items.
• Develop and utilize reporting tools to analyze business data, identify growth opportunities and risks in assortment, and create comprehensive reports on product performance and sales trends for Buyer review.
• Directly engage with vendors for routine communication regarding product samples, tracking shipments, resolving concerns, and communicating changes in pricing and terms for the specialty HBA/Cosmetics brands.
• Evaluate vendor performance to maximize profitability and turn, and make recommendations for adjustments as needed.
• Partner with legal in regards to compliance with quality or ingredient standards.
• Review and suggest HBA/Cosmetics items for advertised circulars/flyers and partner with the Visual Merchandising team to provide display guidelines (e.g., endcaps, tester displays) and ensure accurate execution in-store and online.
• Provide essential administrative support to the Buyer, including scheduling appointments, preparing presentations, managing documentation, and screening/directing incoming inquiries.

Qualifications

• An Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Buying, Business, Finance) is preferred.
• 3 or more years of previous experience in a buying department, allocation, or general retail environment is required.
• 2 or more years of previous experience with HBA and cosmetics buying required.
• Previous experience with an OTB system is highly preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, complex formulas) is required.
• Familiarity with analytical and buying platforms (e.g., Paragon, Qlikview, Retail Ideas, or similar ERP/planning tools) is a plus.
• Possess a mindset focused on career growth and a genuine passion for the HBA and Cosmetics buying field.

Benefits

• Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including but not limited to Medical, Dental, Vision, and much more.
• 401K Program
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Associate Store 30% Discounts
• Enjoy complimentary access to OSJL-owned vacation properties, along with discounted gym memberships and 20% off at OSJL affiliated restaurants.
• Free lunch Fridays

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is between $80,000 - $100,000. Salary commensurates with years of relevant experience.

Schedule

Travel domestically approximately 5 times a year to attend trade shows and key vendor meetings.