Associate Merchant - Aerie

About the role

Able to work in a hybrid environment, meaning that some work may be performed remotely but certain essential functions must be performed in-person/in-office based on the needs of the business. In person/in-office collaboration is required, the frequency of such in-person/in-office collaboration (e.g., portion of week, entire week) is dictated by business needs. Such collaboration includes work centralized around product development, milestone meetings, approvals, etc.

Responsibilities

• Establish, drive and execute a strategic Omni product vision and business plan through effective communication and coordination with cross-functional business partners inclusive of design, international merchandising, planning, etc.
• Work closely with Design team to interpret and forecast trends for assigned areas through the customer lens.
• Develop and assort trend right and brand right product.
• Drive product innovation.
• Understand (at all times) competition and marketplace inclusive of Brick and Mortar AND Digital competition.
• Make brand right and informed decisions for assigned departments/categories based upon the competitive landscape/marketplace and the needs of the customer.
• In partnership with the planning team, establish seasonal strategic plans for sales, markdowns, inventory, and growth opportunity.
• Effectively manage in-season business to maximize topline sales and minimize markdowns.
• Work in conjunction with planning to manage the Open-to-Buy as far as receipts, sales, margin, markdowns, and Weeks of Supply.
• Analyze performance and plans constantly to look for sales and margin opportunities to exceed plan; quickly adapt and respond to changes/trends occurring in the business and in the marketplace.
• Responsible for building an edited collection for the varying formats that maximize sales and margin while meeting the customer needs within reduced space.
• Develop and drive test and react strategy across all channels.
• Effectively and efficiently run business meetings to ensure objectives and deadlines are met.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Retail, Finance, or Business focus preferred.
• 3+ experience as an Assistant Merchant and/or Associate Merchant from a specialty store.
• The ability to operate in both a strategic and hands-on capacity is required.
• Passionate with a keen sense of the latest fashion trends while being able to interpret them for the customer.
• Strong organization, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to sell and influence.
• Strong financial and analytical skills; ability to utilize Google Office Suite.
• Demonstrated success in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment; flexibility and team orientation.
• Ability to act as liaison between cross functional teams.
• Ability to travel.

Qualifications

• Passion for fashion and a deep understanding of current trends.
• Experience in retail, finance, or business fields.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong financial and analytical skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Skills

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Customer-centric approach.
• Financial analysis and budgeting.
• Collaboration and teamwork.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Generous Associate Discount.
• Summer Fridays (For Pittsburgh, NYC and Remote Corporate Associates).
• Casual Dress Code.
• Hybrid Schedule.
• In-Person Connection.
• FOMO (Fun Office Moments Only) Events.

Pay

• Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.
• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service.