Retail Store Buyer - General Merchandise in Portland, Oregon at Made In Oregon

About the Role:

The Retail Store Buyer plays a critical role in driving the success of retail operations by strategically selecting and purchasing merchandise that aligns with consumer demand and company goals. This position requires a deep understanding of market trends, customer preferences, and sales data to forecast future sales and optimize inventory levels. The Retail Buyer collaborates closely with merchandising, marketing, and store operations teams to ensure product assortments meet quality standards and appeal to target customers. By managing budgets and negotiating with suppliers, the Retail Buyer maximizes profitability while maintaining strong vendor relationships. Ultimately, this role ensures that the right products are available at the right time and price to enhance the overall shopping experience and drive business growth.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Management, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in retail buying or merchandising within the retail trade industry.
• Proficiency in analyzing sales data and inventory management systems.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with visual merchandising and store operations coordination.
• Familiarity with budgeting and financial forecasting in a retail environment.
• Knowledge of current retail technology platforms and software tools.
• Advanced analytical skills with experience using data visualization tools.
• Previous experience working in a multi-store retail chain.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze sales trends and historical data to forecast future product demand and make informed purchasing decisions.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Collaborate with merchandising and visual merchandising teams to create appealing product assortments and displays that drive sales.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with store operations to ensure optimal stock availability and minimize overstock or stockouts.
• Manage purchasing budgets and track expenditures to ensure alignment with financial goals and company policies.
• Evaluate product performance regularly and adjust buying strategies to respond to changing market conditions and consumer preferences.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging products to maintain a competitive edge.

Skills:

The required skills such as retail buying, merchandising, and inventory control are essential for daily decision-making regarding product selection and stock management. Visual merchandising skills help the Retail Buyer collaborate effectively with store teams to enhance product presentation and customer engagement. Analyzing sales and future sales trends enables the buyer to anticipate market demands and adjust purchasing strategies proactively. Budgeting skills are used to manage purchasing costs and ensure profitability while maintaining competitive pricing. Additionally, knowledge of store operations and sales trends supports seamless coordination between buying decisions and in-store execution, ensuring that inventory aligns with consumer needs and business objectives.