Buyer

Buyer Reports to : Category Manager Position Summary The Buyer reports to the Category Manager and is responsible for purchasing inventory across various categories, primarily dropship, to maintain the company's in-stock levels and competitive market position. Decisions will be data-driven and aligned with market trends, customer demands, and financial objectives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Purchasing & Inventory Management • Manage dropship and forward-season purchasing processes for store-level inventory across multiple product categories in collaboration with the Category Manager(s). • Utilize data and analytics to drive purchasing decisions, ensuring alignment with the local nuances and demands of individual stores. • Forecast inventory purchase levels in partnership with the Category Manager(s) to accommodate upcoming seasonal, marketing, and promotional events. Vendor Relations & Negotiations • Leverage the company’s purchasing power to negotiate pricing, terms, and logistics to optimize financial, operational, and customer satisfaction goals. Data Analysis & Reporting • Collaborate with Category Manager(s) and Analyst(s) to track and analyze sales metrics and promotional performance for better forecasting and inventory management. • Prepare and distribute effective communications regarding purchases, markdowns, receiving, and inventory adjustments to relevant parties. Operational Collaboration • Work closely with the Operations team to address inventory levels, overages, out-of-stocks, and ordering issues within stores. • Partner with the OPE Manager for purchases related to associated categories. Compliance & Administration •Ensure compliance with governmental regulations and company policies, standards, and procedures. Skills, Requirements, and Qualifications Minimum Requirements •Two years of purchasing experience required, with familiarity in hardware retailing highly desirable. •Associate or bachelor's degree in business, supply chain or marketing, preferred. •Proficient in Microsoft Office 365, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. •Strong mathematical skills for calculating discounts, proportions, gross margins, percentages, and other related metrics. •Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication and collaboration with customers, employees, and vendors. •Reliable personal vehicle and a history of safe operation (mileage reimbursement available). •Must pass a satisfactory background check and controlled substance screening. Preferred Skills •Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, evolving work environment. •Capability to work independently with little supervision. •Cross-functional collaboration skills to work effectively with store teams and managers to drive sales. Physical Demands •Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. •Physical ability to perform tasks requiring standing, bending, and reaching. Travel • Occasional travel (less than 10%) may include store visits and trade shows. Office Environment Hybrid position: 4 days in office, 1 day work from home. Offices located in either Independence, OH or Wooster, OH.