Buyer
: Job Details :

Overview

The Buyer takes ownership of a category and is accountable for the overall business and manages the process to achieve sales, margin, and inventory turnover. The Buyer is responsible for the execution of the processes and functions of their designated merchandise category. He or she is also responsible for the assortment planning, product selection, product development, vendor negotiation, and marketing of specific lines. This position works closely with the buying management team, merchandise planning team, marketing team, allocations team, the visual merchandising and global sourcing teams to significantly improve the profitability and maximize shareholder value.

Responsibilities

* Executes sales, margin and inventory plans for his or her assigned area

* Monitors and responds to issues and opportunities resulting from deviations in plan variances

* Maintains relationships with vendors and interacts with the vendor community within Kirkland's standards as described in the company's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

* Supports the development of customer driven assortment plans for his or her assigned categories

* Identifies and shops competition and makes product recommendations

* Maintains knowledge base of industry and competitor market trends as it related to his or her assigned categories

* Partners with the Planner to evaluate receipts, sales, and markdowns, and to complete accurate forecasts

* Obtains samples and provides direction during advertising turn-ins and proofing

* Establishes collaborative relationships with placement to ensure availability and the timely delivery of merchandise

* Monitors and maintains promotional performance

* Manages and controls the markdown process and communicates variances

* Analyzes sales trend, key items, vendor profitability and aged inventory, and makes recommendations for driving improved performance

* Responsible for product development and negotiation to include cost, subsidy, and terms.

* Demonstrates a commitment to Kirkland's Values

Qualifications

* Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university; or four years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience

* 3-5 years' experience with a mix of buying, planning and placement responsibilities

* Merchandising, product and analytical skills

* Proficiency in the use of desktop applications and Windows-based programs

* Retail math literacy and application of concepts to daily operations

* Ability to maintain and build strong working relationships

* Demonstrates strong communication skills, both written and verbal

* Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.

* Ability to travel as needed