Buyer Associate

Responsibilities

• Performs in-depth analysis and management of key categories identified by senior leadership for each season, including direct contact and negotiation with vendors and follow-through on execution with Planners and stores.
• Works closely with Merchandise Control team to maintain SKU and pricing information in MMS.
• Prepares weekly sales reports for distribution to General Merchandise and Operations management teams.
• Analyzes sales using reporting tools (JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS) as needed for seasonal assortment reviews, vendor reviews, internal/external presentations, test programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy.
• Manages key sub-categories within the department.
• Verifies that pricing and vendor information is accurate in MMS and proofreads correspondence letters.
• Aids in the development and promotional materials and PMF write-ups.
• Maintains and organizes vendor samples of approved assortment styles for the current season.
• Acts as the point person for special requests from Planners.
• Works closely with the Planning team on special seasonal buys.
• Communicates vendor/product information to Planning and Allocation teams, including assortment plans, graphics, and lead times.
• Conducts presentation of sales reports in all vendor meetings with specific feedback on sales trends and best sellers.
• Corresponds with prospective vendors on an ongoing basis and communicates status in the review process.
• Updates and distributes assortment plans, term sheets, and correspondence letters to vendors.
• Mentors and provides training to Assistant Buyer, including reporting tools (JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS), communication protocol, and other job functions.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent; preferred field of study is Business, Marketing, or Merchandising.
• 1-2 years of experience as an Assistant Buyer or equivalent experience in a retail environment required.
• Intermediate experience using JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS or similar retail reporting systems required.
• Must be proficient in MS Office with intermediate Excel skills.
• Must possess superior oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to engage in periodic travel to bookstore locations for store visits and to support home game athletic events.
• Intermediate experience using JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS or similar retail reporting systems required.
• Proficient in MS Office with intermediate Excel skills.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a retail environment.
• Ability to engage in periodic travel.