Buyer In-Training

Overview

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, serving over 150 locations across 17 states. Founded in Mattoon, IL, with a corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store, Rural King offers a unique shopping experience with complimentary popcorn and coffee. Our mission is to provide essential products to rural communities and foster a supportive workplace culture.

Responsibilities

• Develop strong, effective vendor partnerships
• Manage vendor allowances, marketing programs, and promotional strategies
• Negotiate pricing, vendor terms, opportunity buys, and free goods
• Serve as the main point of contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Work closely with Logistics and DC teams to optimize product flow to stores
• Partner with Replenishment and Planning teams on product flow and order management
• Visit Rural King stores to maintain open communication and understand in-store challenges
• Monitor market trends and competitive landscape
• Manage product pricing, sales, profit margins, and turnover to meet budgeted targets
• Identify and pursue new product opportunities that align with customer needs
• Conduct 2–3 annual category line reviews and support other category duties as assigned
• Develop seasonal merchandise assortments, pricing, and merchandising plans
• Attend product shows and visit suppliers as relevant to assigned categories
• Place, track, and ensure timely delivery of all new store orders
• Collaborate with Inventory Planners to analyze and improve product performance
• Maintain current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends
• Generate and interpret reports to support data-driven decisions
• Manage assortment planning and product lifecycle processes
• Create financial plans (Open-to-Buy) aligned with company goals
• Identify and address poor-performing items and reduce inventory liabilities
• Collaborate on preseason flow plans and inventory projections
• Develop and submit promotional plans that drive sales and store traffic
• Ensure 98.5% in-stock accuracy for print advertising items
• Collaborate with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies
• Provide timely direction on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
• Achieve accurate, timely, and appropriate planograms for store volume and space
• Lead teams to drive sales, manage inventory, and meet financial goals
• Communicate a clear strategic vision, including visual merchandising strategies
• Inspire and mentor team members to grow personally and professionally
• Lead impactful projects that support Rural King’s success and growth
• Influence the strategic direction of the department
• Exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Actively participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Provide friendly, professional support to internal and external partners
• Hold oneself accountable for adherence to Rural King’s core values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, Continuous Improvement
• Successfully transition into a Buyer role within 18 months

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience in-store retail, merchandising, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong potential for growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and business acumen
• Proven ability to solve complex problems and make data-driven decisions
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel skills preferred
• Skilled in negotiation, conflict resolution, and cross-functional collaboration
• Strong understanding of retail operations and best practices
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, discretion, and alignment with company values