Assistant Buyer, Handbags - Bergdorf Goodman

Saks•New York, NY

4d•$59,000 - $79,000

About The Position

The Assistant Buyer at Bergdorf Goodman supports the Buyer in executing strategic merchandising plans across order management, market preparation, and in-season analysis. The role works with brand executives, merchandise planners, store and digital teams, and offshore merchandise assistants to maintain purchase order accuracy, optimize pricing and markdown cadences, coordinate market and style-out logistics, and provide actionable insights to support sales and growth targets. Responsibilities span managing seasonal orders and inventory, preparing for market, and analyzing business performance throughout the season. The Assistant Buyer also coordinates cross-functional execution and reporting, including price changes, returns to vendors, and promotional adjustments.

Requirements

1–2 years of experience as an Assistant Buyer, preferably in a major department store.
Strong knowledge of retail math, including markup, margin planning, open to buy, and inventory productivity measures such as WOS, turnover, and GMROI.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent computer skills, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Sheets, Google Docs, and Google Slides.
Proficiency with RFS, AMS, PCW, and NuOrder systems.
Ability to manage ambiguity, work independently as a self-starter, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Strong accountability and ability to multitask and prioritize independently.
Ability to generate varied and novel approaches to problem-solving quickly.
Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate directly and diplomatically and build trust quickly.
Proven ability to drive positive outcomes through objectives and measures in a large, complex organization.
Openness to new perspectives and willingness to try new ways of working.

Responsibilities

Partner with Buyers, Associate Buyers, and brand executives on seasonal delivery strategies, order execution, buy sheet integrity, and resolution of assortment discrepancies.
Evaluate style-level performance data and identify sales trends, inventory reorders, and style-swap opportunities.
Work with Planners to assess financial impacts and inventory targets and prepare purchase orders for designated business segments.
Oversee offshore Merchandise Assistants in creating, transmitting, and tracking purchase orders; ensure data accuracy, vendor communication, and timely issue resolution.
Manage receipt-flow changes and ensure purchase orders accurately reflect ship windows, order quantities, and on-order inventory.
Prepare for market by synthesizing historical performance, customer preferences, and emerging trends with Planners.
Coordinate market appointments and represent the team at the New York market as needed.
Lead logistics and analytical preparation for style-out sessions and develop strategic product assortments to support sales and brand growth.
Coordinate execution feedback and questions among brand partners and cross-functional teams, including visual merchandising, site merchandising, store operations, digital, marketing, and planning.
Track performance with Merchandise Planners, deliver style-level insights, recommend in-season actions, and support monthly Open-to-Buy preparation.
Direct markdown cadences and oversee offshore execution of price changes, returns to vendors, and promotional adjustments; resolve escalated issues.
Collaborate with the offshore reporting team to create custom buying reports, update structural views, and maintain reporting timelines.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Basic life insurance
Supplemental life insurance
Disability insurance
Additional voluntary benefits, including critical illness, hospital, and accident insurance
Employee discount
Career advancement opportunities