Merchant / Buyer, Swim and Apparel [AQ-16583]

About Our Client

Our client is a leading global specialty retail brand, celebrated for its iconic presence and dedication to providing exceptional products. As a true innovator, they continuously evolve to remain at the forefront of the retail industry, captivating a diverse customer base with their forward-thinking approach.

About The Role

This is your chance to lead and make a tangible difference! We are seeking a seasoned merchandising expert to take on a critical role where your expertise will directly influence product strategy and market success. You'll be at the helm of shaping product assortments, impacting market trends, and driving business growth for a globally recognized brand. This role offers unparalleled ownership, empowering you to make pivotal decisions and propel the business forward with your strategic insights and hands-on execution. Expect a dynamic mix of team meetings, vendor calls, hands-on product assorting, and deep dives into performance numbers, ensuring every day brings new challenges and opportunities for impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and own the assortment plan for your categories, including price point strategy and space allocation.
• Partner with design and product development to keep the line plan and production calendar on track.
• Collaborate with manufacturing partners on vendor selection, calendar, and costing strategy.
• Lead vendor and cross-functional team meetings.
• Analyze weekly and monthly business performance to identify sales opportunities, protect margin, manage inventory, and reduce markdowns.
• Track competitive intelligence and assess fashion and market trends to inform buys.
• Contribute to merchandise presentation and marketing campaign planning.
• Participate in the patterning process and partner cross-functionally on inventory management.

Requirements

• 5 to 7 years of merchandising experience, with time spent at the Merchant, Senior Merchant, or Buyer level (this is a firm requirement, not an Assistant Buyer or Associate level role).
• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Confident decision-maker who can take a point of view and stand behind it.
• Ability to lead a team and influence cross-functional partners.
• Strong analytical skills and comfort working independently through complex issues.

Preferred Qualifications

• A background in wholesale, swim, or apparel is a plus.

About Aquent Talent

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands. Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium.