Associate Buyer

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

As an Associate Buyer, you are responsible for setting the merchandise strategy for an assigned category, including assortment selection, pricing, promotions, and line plan development. You will drive vendor selection and negotiate product purchases, terms, and ongoing relationships while staying informed on market and competitor trends.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising Management, Supply Chain Management, Economics, Business, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant merchandising or buying experience.

Responsibilities

• Purchase and manage merchandise assortments to maximize sales, margin, and overall business performance.
• Manage product assortment and specifications to identify and address opportunities that drive sales and margin growth.
• Negotiate product costs, terms, and shipping/return agreements with vendors.
• Act as a liaison between merchandising, distribution centers, and stores to track shipments and manage purchase orders.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure optimal pricing, product quality, and on-time deliveries.
• Identify products for promotional and marketing strategies to achieve sales and margin goals.
• Provide input on product lifecycle management, exit strategies, and inventory aging standards.
• Assist in developing business plans that maximize sales and margin performance based on internal data, market trends, and competitive analysis.
• Participate in recommending, setting, and approving pricing strategies, markdowns, and exit plans to meet margin objectives.
• Collaborate with merchandising partners to manage product line performance, including sales, promotions, markdowns, inventory levels, product quality, and selling costs.

Benefits

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• “Lil Paws” NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level