Junior Merchandise Assistant

Jobs for Humanity•Framingham, MA

60d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Merchandise Assistant provides administrative and clerical support to 2–4 Buyers and an AVP, Merchandise Manager, while assisting with purchase orders, vendor communication, and departmental operations. This role is critical in maintaining smooth communication with 50+ vendors, ensuring accurate and timely processing of domestic and import purchase orders, and supporting the overall efficiency of the buying team. The Merchandise Assistant will also coordinate travel, manage vendor samples, and perform special projects as assigned.

Requirements

Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ability to learn new systems quickly.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with all levels of management and external vendors.
Flexibility, initiative, and resourcefulness in handling varied duties.

Responsibilities

Prepare and write domestic and import purchase orders; enter and review electronic POs via the Buyer Worksheet application.
Revise POs daily, following the purchase order change process, and secure all required approvals.
Partner with Planning & Allocation to ensure timely and accurate PO entry.
Review and ensure accuracy of ASN/EDI PO information; follow up with vendors to resolve discrepancies.
Monitor weekly late lists, follow up with vendors, and revise or cancel POs as needed.
Assist in shipment follow-up, problem-solving for over/under shipments, and vendor chargebacks/cost discrepancies.
Communicate daily with vendors regarding POs, allocations, problem-solving, and inquiries.
Serve as the first point of contact for vendor calls, including PO-related issues, appointments, and allocation inquiries.
Maintain vendor database by soliciting accurate contact information and updating records.
Build and sustain strong vendor relationships to support business operations.
Prepare and organize weekly reports, including Buyer Control Files and On Order Inquiries.
Coordinate all travel arrangements for Buyers and the AVP, including itineraries and scheduling market appointments.
Organize and set up vendor and agent visits in the home office.
Assist with the pre-production and production sample process, including tracking, organizing, and displaying samples for buyer approval.
Maintain the sample room, request vendor samples for strategy meetings, and ensure timely return of items.
Support organizational tasks such as filing, maintaining binders, and addressing pre-ticketed merchandise issues.
Comply with Sarbanes Oxley requirements by securing appropriate signatures on POs.
Perform special projects such as pulling selling reports, managing weekly spend grids, and creating spreadsheets.