Position Purpose:
Responsible for executing the merchandising objectives to support a portfolio of merchandise. This includes, assisting the merchant with creating and maintaining vendor relationships, marketing products, developing product line strategies and reporting financial results. The Associate Merchant assists with making buying decisions for the assigned category and negotiates terms with suppliers to drive item selection and pricing.
Key Responsibilities:
30% Supplier and Branch Relationship Management - Assists Merchant with influencing the supplier and branch management strategy to support overall department strategy; works to improve all aspects of supplier and branch relationships. May serve as a key contributor on various other key projects.
30% Financial Planning & Management - Assists Merchant with Implementing the financial strategy/ cost structure for a category and sets pricing.
20% Merchandising Execution - Assists Merchant with developing merchandising strategy to understand key business drivers (e.g. historical performance, industry/ competitive landscape, consumer segmentation). May serve as a key contributor on various key projects within a business function.
20% Assortment Selection - Assists Merchant with executing the business review of category/ categories on a regular basis; determining changes to product mix to better optimize assortment and drive innovation.
Direct Manager/Direct Reports:
Travel Requirements:
Physical Requirements:
Working Conditions:
Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
Working knowledge of presentation software (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint)
Demonstrated ability to collaborate and work effectively with cross-functional teams
Ability to draw accurate conclusions from financial documentation
Demonstrated project management skills
Ability to negotiate, handle complaints, settle disputes, and resolve grievances with both internal and external customers
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Experience with managing regional and national suppliers. Ability to manage sales typically in excess of $400M. Experience managing a business (financial, operational, process, people,
technology etc).
Proven experience in merchandising execution, visual presentation, inventory management, channel management, and supplier management.
Proven proficiency in both a brick and mortar and online retail environment
Experience managing a large number of vendors simultaneously
Comprehensive understanding of relevant products to make purchasing decisions
Advanced understanding of internal and environmental sales drivers
Merchandising and retail planning expertise
Minimum Education:
Preferred Education:
Minimum Years of Work Experience:
Preferred Years of Work Experience:
Minimum Leadership Experience:
Preferred Leadership Experience:
Certifications:
Competencies:
Action Oriented
Nimble Learning
Collaborates
Communicates Effectively
Customer Focus
Drives Results
Financial Acumen
