Assistant Buyer

World Market•Alameda, CA

1d•$72,000 - $78,000•Hybrid

About The Position

For over 60 years we have shared stories from across the globe that remind you of a time you cherish, a place you love and people who make you feel at home. We have inspired the home decorator, entertainer and gifter with our unique assortment of products sourced and designed around the world and we continue to be inspired by you. You, your authenticity, impact and distinction drive our success and inspires us to be inclusive, collaborative, open minded, adaptable, honest and respectful. Responsible for managing the daily operation of the department including but not limited to; planning, forecasting, developing and coordinating all information related to advertising. The Assistant Buyer is responsible, in partnership with the Buyer for developing and driving business strategies that meet or exceed the department’s financial goals. The Assistant Buyer will provide information and ideas to develop assortments, key items, promotional strategies, growth opportunities and store assortments that are viable while providing an exciting in-store customer experience. The Assistant Buyer communicates with vendors and agents and serves as the key department contact for all stores.

Requirements

BA/BS degree or commensurate work experience required
Minimum 3 years' experience as an Assistant Buyer with a multi-unit retailer
Excellent analytical and problem solving skills
Ability to identify business opportunities and risks by analyzing sales performance and the competitive landscape, provide findings to buyer and cross functional partners
Demonstrate an understanding of product trends and historical data at the category level to provide recommendations on assortments in partnership with the buyer
Excellent listening, written and oral communication skills, ability to clearly communicate with an appropriate sense of urgency
Strong knowledge of retail math calculations
Ability to handle multiple priorities, shifting tasks and timelines
Ability to work autonomously, strong decision making skills with good judgement
Ability to be the key contact person on the business when the buyer is out of the office
Experience with Merchandising software systems; AS400, Brio
Solid systems skills; Microsoft; Excel, Word

Responsibilities

Identify business opportunities and risks through analyzing sales performance and competitive landscape
Demonstrate an understanding of the product trends, historical data and departments input at the category level to manage assortments opportunities and risks
Understand the competitive environment; proactively seek market knowledge through exposure to the competition
Provide analysis to summarize and analyze weekly sales data, recommend appropriate action to Buyer
Identify business opportunities and risks through analyzing sales performance and competitive landscape
Strategically partner with Buyer to plan merchandise promotions and financial-markdowns
Prepare all advertising-samples, ROI’s, meetings and signs; proof advertising
Function as back-up to the Buyer when she or he is out of the office on domestic and overseas buying trips
May have direct responsibility for one or more merchandise categories
Assist Buyer with strategic promotion planning following the master retail calendar
Be an integral partner with visual merchandising; responsible for all schematic planning, shelf talker and signs.
Evaluate effectiveness and address concerns as needed
Attend strategic planning and best seller meetings and in Buyers absence present information to the group
Actively work with vendors and organize claims preparation. Follow through monthly to resolve outstanding issues.
Provide strategic support and recommendations to Buyer through the product development life cycle
Responsible for all SKU maintenance-set-up & updates for the department
Sample management including unpacking and sample house placement

Benefits

Work life balance is a priority (work from home flexibility).
Employee discount and product sample sales!
A fun and supportive work environment where you feel welcome and safe.
A culture of inclusion that empowers you to be your best authentic self.
Opportunities to make an impact through your passions.
Wellness Education Programs including virtual fitness classes, personal health advocates, coaches, gym discounts and more.
Accrued Vacation, Sick Time and Personal Holidays.
Eligible employees offered Medical and Dental Insurance, Vision Coverage, 401(k) Savings Plan, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance and more.
Full time and Part time associates are eligible to participate in the Company’s 401(k) retirement savings plan after three (3) months of service.
Benefits for full-time employment o n the first of the month following 30 days of continuous employment include offerings for programs including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, Commuter Benefits and Employee Assistance.