Associate Buyer

Columbia Sportswear Company • Portland, OR

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Buyer supports Columbia Sportswear Company's North America Direct-to-Consumer team, which serves outlet, brand, and employee stores in the US and Canada. The role partners with the team on seasonal buys and long-term strategies for Footwear and Accessories, assisting with buying activities such as financial investments by item, store assortments, marketing, in-season price and inventory management, and product execution. The Associate Buyer collaborates across functions and helps shape assortments to maximize sales and gross margin.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, applicable certification, or equivalent experience.
• 2–4 years of professional experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with the retail industry and its specific metrics.
• Excellent presentation skills.

Nice To Haves

• Illustrator experience.

Responsibilities

• Partner with team members on product assortments, including style selection and product flow, ensuring alignment with financial plans.
• Develop and present assortments that support in-stock positioning for key merchandise categories, balanced presentations, and accurate, timely receipt flow.
• Partner with team members on in-season business management, including inventory management and pricing strategies to increase sales and improve gross margin.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners to maximize sales and ensure store execution.
• Partner with the Planning team on future forecasts of sales trends, merchandise availability, and other business changes.
• Manage inventory levels through price optimization of markdowns and promotions.
• Partner with the Allocation team on product execution, ensuring timely delivery and replenishment throughout the season to maximize sales.
• Partner to ensure cohesive product execution through marketing and visual merchandising.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Disability insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Health savings account.
• Voluntary benefits, including accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and legal services.
• Free, confidential EAP+ counseling services available 24/7/365.
• Wellness benefits.
• Employee discounts.
• A generous time-off program.

What This Job Offers

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