Assistant Buyer
About the job:
Location – Home Office – Birmingham
Type – Hybrid
Department: General Merchandise
Description: As part of the Buying team, the Assistant Buyer helps to create timely product assortments that maximize sales and profit. The successful candidate will be self-starting, flexible, highly organized, and results oriented. This candidate must have the proven ability to work well under pressure in a demanding environment where teamwork is key. The Assistant Buyer will be career-oriented with a strong desire to take on increasing levels of responsibility. The Assistant Buyer will purchase and manage $1 -$14 million in sales volume with volume dependent upon complexity of the assigned categories.
Role Summary:
Management of Assigned Categories (60%)
- Executes merchandising activities including full life cycle of purchase orders through judgement and problem solving.
- Produces financial sales recaps and analysis to identify new and existing business opportunities. Communicates findings and advocates for intended purchases.
- Takes initiative to develop collaborative vendor relationships, including cost negotiation, problem resolution and follow up.
- Makes independent decisions on proper maintenance of data accuracy and integrity for the company without supervision.
- Ensures timely delivery of merchandise via consistent communication and follow up with publishers, vendors and distribution center.
- Develops product planograms for in store merchandise sets that drive sales and fixture productivity.
- Communicates regularly with stores using appropriate communication channels.
- Travels to trade shows, vendor meetings and store visits.
Buyer and Division Support (40%)
- Executes cooperative marketing contracts and incentives including vendor promotional partnerships
- Provides organizational support for cross functional team projects.
- Monitors competitor merchandising and shares findings with stakeholders.
- Projects as assigned by the Buyer/Divisional Merchandise Manager.
Education and/or Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in merchandising or business-related field or equivalent combination of work experience
- 2 -3 years of retail or relevant sales experience which may include retail internship
Qualifications:
- Exercises independent judgement to make decisions and work with minimal supervision
- Displays strong business acumen with the ability to analyze data and draw conclusions
- Demonstrates leadership skills, assertiveness and intellectual curiosity
- Exhibits high standards, accountability, attention to detail and accuracy with time management skills to include prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines
- Develops strong business partnerships both internally and externally
- Adaptable, flexible and perseveres to overcome obstacles
- Presents information effectively and accurately, expressing ideas clearly and concisely
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint
Special Requirements:
- Travel - Up to 25% of travel may be required depending upon area assigned.
- Work schedule expectations –
- On-call or peak-season requirements –
At Books-A-Million, we believe in taking care of our employees. As part of the team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay and performance-based incentives.
Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you healthy.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy generous PTO and paid holidays.
Employee Discounts: Get discounts on books and other products across our stores.
Retirement Savings: Build your future with our 401(k) plan and company contributions.
Books-A-Million is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences, and we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their background or personal characteristics. We are dedicated to creating a culture of respect, equity, and opportunity for all employees, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
