Executive Training Program - Assistant Buyer

Academy•Katy, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Academy Sports + Outdoors is seeking individuals for their Executive Training Program - Assistant Buyer role. This program offers a comprehensive learning experience in core merchandising functions, from product concept to customer delivery. Participants will gain hands-on experience in advertising, pricing, inventory management, vendor communication, and financial analysis. The role involves deep dives into item setup, online assortments, MAP pricing, line reviews, and market research. As the program progresses, participants will support leaders by presenting insights and recommendations to influence strategy, ultimately strengthening product selection, marketing effectiveness, and departmental performance. This is a collaborative role that partners with Buyers, Planners, Replenishment Analysts, Forecast Analysts, Omnichannel Merchandisers, and Space Planners, providing a complete view of business operations. It also involves building relationships with vendors and cross-functional teams in marketing, supply chain, and store operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
0–2 years of related business experience
Strong communication skills and ability to work with partners at all levels
Ability to stay organized, adapt quickly, and manage multiple priorities
Comfort analyzing data and presenting findings to leaders
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Self-motivation, curiosity, and a strong sense of urgency
Customer-oriented mindset that supports strategic decision-making
A team-first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you're happy to step in wherever you're needed

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree a plus
Love for sports and the outdoors

Responsibilities

Rotate through core merchandising functions to learn how products move from concept to customer.
Gain hands-on experience with advertising, pricing, inventory management, vendor communication, and financial analysis.
Apply learned concepts to real business decisions.
Take a deep-dive into item setup, online assortments, MAP pricing, line reviews, market research, and more.
Support leaders by presenting insights and recommendations that influence strategy.
Strengthen product selection, marketing effectiveness, and overall departmental performance.
Partner with Buyers, Planners, Replenishment Analysts, Forecast Analysts, Omnichannel Merchandisers, and Space Planners.
Build relationships with vendors and cross-functional teams in marketing, supply chain, and store operations.