Category Merchant-Framingham, MA

Staples•Framingham, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Category Merchant for the Business Essentials team in US Retail Stores (USR) business. Responsible for achieving financial objectives by developing and executing a customer-centric strategy. This strategy will include assortment planning, merchandise and vendor selection, negotiation, financial planning, supply chain and inventory turn implications, advertising plans, merchandise presentation, distribution, vendor relations and administration for assigned lines. Merchandising is a key strategic pillar of growth for Staples Retail, and this role is critical to accelerating change and super-charging this high-potential business. Staples is investing in its people and stores, empowering them to learn, grow and deliver.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree
Minimum 4-6 years total experience in buying related functions
Expert knowledge of industry trends, competition, assortment planning, customer behaviors, inventory management, logistics and marketing techniques.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated in-depth knowledge in financial analysis and forecasting.
Expert negotiating skills with highest level internally and externally.
Accomplished in holding a team accountable to achieve measurable results.
Multiple category experience including large P+L management is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a customer-centric strategy for assigned categories.
Achieve financial objectives in sales, margin, and inventory.
Conduct research and gather field feedback to understand customer needs.
Develop and execute business plans to meet budgeted goals.
Communicate strategy effectively to all levels of the company.
Ensure plans align with company strategic objectives.
Analyze data to identify market trends and customer buying patterns.
Select assortment items and vendors.
Influence pricing and create an elegant customer experience.
Negotiate for lower total delivered cost, volume incentives, rebates, advertising, and other allowances.
Review and approve financial and item forecasts with Planners.
Partner and influence cross-functional partners such as Pricing, Site Merchandising, Marketing, Portfolio, and Inventory + Planning.
Manage support team.