Assistant Category Manager – Uniforms FT – 6600

Coast Guard Exchange•Chesapeake, VA

About The Position

The position’s primary duty consists of office or non-manual work directly related to managing and supporting the general business operations of the Coast Guard Exchange uniform supply program. Supports the Uniform Program Category Manager in the strategic management of uniforms and insignia across all retail distribution channels including stores and ecommerce. Executes the procurement and distribution of uniforms to meet Coast Guard standards, customer expectations, and business goals. Analyzes sales and inventory data and supports assortment planning to maintain uniform assortments at the store level, based on the needs of local operational commands. Maximizes in-stock rates at the SKU level and manages product presentation standards in stores and online. Works under the general supervision of the Uniform Program Category Manager and exercises independent judgment and approach in routine situations. Coordinates business actions with store operations teams and suppliers and provides excellent customer service to internal and external customers. Primary duty requires the exercise of discretion and independent judgement on matters of business significance, applying well-established retailing techniques, procedures, and standards. Has authority to make independent choices free from immediate direction or supervision in implementing management policies and operating practices, or when deviating from established policies/procedures with a bias to our military uniform customers. Performance is evaluated on business results, analytical skills, collaboration established individual performance objectives and ability to support strategic category initiatives. Acquires a working knowledge of US Coast Guard Regulations pertaining to uniforms and insignia. Must obtain security clearance to access to the procurement and inventory systems of the Defense Logistics Agency. Provides consultation and expert advice regarding uniforms supply to management. Attends Federal Government symposiums, visits manufacturing facilities and store locations as needed. Works closely with Region Managers and store managers to address and maximize in-stock opportunities. Performs work that affects operations to a substantial degree. Investigates and resolves significant matters related to uniforms supply on behalf of management. Advises management in planning long-term and short-term uniforms supply objectives. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
One year of retail merchandising, planning, buying or technical experience in a multi-store or ecommerce operation.
Demonstrated leadership experience.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Demonstrated organizational and analytical skills.
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.
This is a white-collar position where occasional lifting up to 20 lbs may be required.

Nice To Haves

A total of 2 years’ retail experience to include buying, planning, merchandising, technical experience or other work that enabled the applicant to gain knowledge of merchandising and buying practices
Knowledge of ERP, merchandise planning, or replenishment systems and processes.
Strong financial analysis and reporting skills.
Experience in vendor negotiation or supplier management.
Relevant military experience.

Responsibilities

Supports the Uniform Program Category Manager in the strategic management of uniforms and insignia across all retail distribution channels including stores and ecommerce.
Executes the procurement and distribution of uniforms to meet Coast Guard standards, customer expectations, and business goals.
Analyzes sales and inventory data and supports assortment planning to maintain uniform assortments at the store level, based on the needs of local operational commands.
Maximizes in-stock rates at the SKU level and manages product presentation standards in stores and online.
Coordinates business actions with store operations teams and suppliers and provides excellent customer service to internal and external customers.
Provides consultation and expert advice regarding uniforms supply to management.
Attends Federal Government symposiums, visits manufacturing facilities and store locations as needed.
Works closely with Region Managers and store managers to address and maximize in-stock opportunities.
Investigates and resolves significant matters related to uniforms supply on behalf of management.
Advises management in planning long-term and short-term uniforms supply objectives.
Performs other related duties as assigned.