Merchandise Manager / Analyst

Barnes & Noble Education • Philadelphia, PA

375d

About The Position

The Retail Merchandise Manager/Analyst at Barnes & Noble College plays a crucial role in implementing retail strategies at the University of Pennsylvania Campus Store. This position focuses on developing merchandise strategies, creating assortment plans, and ensuring effective product placement to meet financial targets and enhance the shopping experience for the university community.

Requirements

• At least 4+ years of experience in buying and merchandising in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Marketing, Merchandising, or a related field is preferred.
• Strong critical thinking skills and a high level of initiative with a passion for process improvement.
• Comprehensive knowledge of retail math and strong analytical abilities.
• Proven negotiation skills with external vendors, including managing costs and markdowns.
• Excellent team player with clear communication skills and strong relationship-building capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office software, including intermediate to advanced Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a retail environment focused on educational content and merchandise.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Analyze the Penn emblematic business to ensure optimized product flow, placement, and sell-through.
• Develop an assortment plan in partnership with buying and planning teams.
• Optimize space allocation and merchandising of the Penn bookstore.
• Collaborate with strategic partners on UPenn event strategies, product lines, product flow, vendors, and markdown strategies.
• Manage an 'open to buy' budget, tracking and planning inventory purchases within financial limits.
• Support vendor installation projects to ensure functionality and marketing collateral supports the product to drive sales.
• Track and review sales to provide analysis for increased sales opportunities and improved margins.
• Assist in managing and setting up processes for Retail Initiatives specifically for the Penn Campus Store.
• Participate in plans for ad campaigns and merchandise presentations, ensuring alignment with marketing strategies.
• Support store operations and departments in partnership with the management team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $68.3K - $86.5K per year.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Dynamic retail environment focused on educational content.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Sporting Goods, Hobby, Musical Instrument, Book, and Miscellaneous Retailers
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree