Associate Buyer - Children's
The Associate Buyer works with the Buyer or Sr. Buyer in identifying, executing and communicating long term and seasonal merchandise strategies through the development of assortment plans. The Associate Buyer will control merchandising and marketing messages that meet or exceed sales, profit and inventory plans for JCPenney Stores and JCP.com
Primary Responsibilities :
- Develop a competitive merchandise assortment plan that is customer focused and adjusts to sales plans based on competition, business needs, and fashion / industry trends
- Manage all aspects of assortment, product placement, order writing, marketing, pricing, signing, and markdowns
- Build strong product assortments with suppliers and negotiate pricing and inventory for assigned categories
- Utilize open-to-buy to manage business pre-season and in-season while working in tangent with Planner to maximize business opportunities
- Evaluate suppliers on new and existing products, including but not limited to quality, pricing, shipping time, customer demand and return on investment
- Integrate brand, sourcing, marketing and supply chain functions into the merchandising process to make business decisions
- Determine item lifecycles and exit strategies as well as identify items to maximize promotional and marketing strategies
- Attend all market weeks, store trips, trade shows and conferences
- Train and coach Assistant Buyers & Sr. Assistant Buyers
Core Competencies & Accomplishments :
College degree or equivalent business experienceMinimum 4 years merchandising experience; preferably with a large organization in a similar roleThorough knowledge of buying and operations gained through progressive buying experienceAssortment optimization and Business PlanningSupplier and Price ManagementStrong Decision Making ability and Negotiation SkillsAdaptability / PerseveranceProficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook requiredWhat you get : We offer a competitive benefits package including medical / dental / vision, term life insurance, paid vacation / holidays, 401(k) Savings Plan with company match, and an associate discount on JCPenney merchandise.
Pay Range : USD $65,000.00 - USD $105,000.00 / Yr.