The responsibility of the buyer is to develop merchandise assortments and strategies to drive profitable category sales and productivity, while ensuring product value, quality and styling. The buyer holds a leadership role within the category management team (CMT). Working within the CMT, the buyer is responsible for all aspects of assortment planning, selection, maintenance and promotion, for designated product categories.
**This position is Akron, OH based - candidates must be local and available for a hybrid work setting**
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Category Management
Partner with Leader to set strategic vision for Category
Ability to adjust quickly, if needed, to changing market trends, conditions, priorities, and corporate strategies.
Participate in the development of financial plans and advertising/marketing plans for designated product categories.
Oversee training and career development for Direct Reports / Team
Product Development
Develop, select, test, price and acquire quality merchandise consistent with consumer demand, and in keeping with strategic department goals and policies.
Up-to-date knowledge of jewelry market trends and competitive strategies.
Develop new product concepts/brands for test market(s), with potential for expanded store roll out.
Strategic handling of vendor base with ability to find and develop strong vendor partners.
Assortment / Inventory Management
Co-Manage and plan merchandising assortments for e-commerce/web sites.
Work with Inventory Analyst to ensure proper in-stock levels
Manage negotiations relating to the return of discontinued product(s) to appropriate supplier
Negotiate annual purchasing agreement contracts with vendors.
Collaboration
Coordinate efforts with the marketing, visual display and advertising departments to promote and market, key items, programs/brands and categories.
Merchandise all marketing channel items for designated product categories. Present and justify all catalog/promotional items to merchandise directors and vice presidents.
Partner with Sourcing on factory selection and cost negotiation.
Partner with Financial Planning team on open-to-buy for assigned product categories.
Assist CMT with issues on vendor performance, including late orders and quality control issues.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Bachelors degree or equivalent experience
Years of Job-Related Experience Required:
3-5 years of prior Buying experience (preferably jewelry based)
Technical/Other Skills Required:
Ability to travel both nationally and internationally. Occasional weekend travel as needed.
Ability to be flexible with work schedule, including occasional Saturdays, as needed.
Computer skills with basic knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Strong communication skills.
Strong negotiation skills, attention to detail and accuracy, and organizational skills.
Strong math skills (ability to work with numbers and analyze data).
Ability to be metal free and work in a metal free environment when necessary, based on security policy.