About the job
Job Summary:
The Assistant Buyer plays a crucial role in partnering with the category team to assess, select, promote, and expand the portfolio of brands/products in their assigned category, while fostering strong relationships with vendors. This position collaborates closely with Buyers to identify and onboard new suppliers and products that align with current trends and team objectives. As an entry-level position within the Merchandising Team's buying structure, the Assistant Buyer is accountable for making merchandising decisions for low to mid-volume accounts and providing vital support to category teams.
Job Expectations:
Work collaboratively with Buyers, Managers, and team members to ensure alignment on business strategies and growth objectives.
Assist Buyers in developing and maintaining a product assortment that meets customer needs and provides a competitive edge in the market.
Engage in negotiations with vendors to secure favorable pricing, marketing and promotional budgets, special buys, growth incentives, and terms for low/mid volume accounts.
Nurture relationships with existing and new low/mid volume vendors to drive sales, innovation, margin improvement, and ensure clear communication of goals and capabilities.
Coordinate with Buyers on contract negotiations, product evaluations, quality control, customer service inquiries, and maintain an up-to-date supplier and product database.
Lead the onboarding process for new products and brands to guarantee timely market entry.
Regularly update and maintain cost, pricing, and product adjustments in the system to achieve targeted margins.
Collaborate with Inventory Management and Planning Teams to optimize inventory turnover, service levels, and supply chain practices.
