Retail Buyer

SSA Group•Denver, CO

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Retail Buyer is a corporate merchandising partner at SSA, responsible for selecting, sourcing, and pricing the products that fill the assortment in their assigned categories. They report to the Divisional Merchandise Director (DMD) and work as equals with Planners, alongside Merchandise Assistants and cross-functional teams, to put the right product in the right place at the right price. Buyers own their vendor relationships and category performance, using sales data, market trends, and guest preferences to refine the assortment, protect margin, and keep inventory balanced. The role blends analysis with creativity — from negotiating terms and reviewing samples to building look books and, in some cases, developing custom or exclusive products for partner accounts. Their core responsibility is translating the DMD's merchandising strategy into a profitable, well-sourced assortment that delights guests and delivers for partners.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in buying, merchandising, or a related role within retail or wholesale
Proven track record in vendor management, contract negotiation, and pricing strategies
Experience analyzing sales data and key performance metrics such as revenue, gross margin, and inventory turnover, with familiarity with open-to-buy processes and inventory planning
Experience working cross-functionally with teams such as merchandising, marketing, and operations, paired with strong business acumen and the ability to manage multiple projects at once with close attention to detail
Previous attraction retail experience
Must be proficient in Word, Excel, and Power Point
Ability to quickly learn multiple POS systems
Experience with cloud-based systems, uploading files and making changes to online documents

Nice To Haves

experience developing exclusive or private-label products
knowledge of retail and e-commerce operations
knowledge of sustainability practices and working with diverse suppliers
industry-specific knowledge is a plus but not necessary

Responsibilities

Select and purchase products that align with the DMD's merchandising strategy by researching potential items, evaluating samples, and deciding what belongs in the assortment
Create look books annually, seasonally, and for special events to showcase product selections and support cohesive merchandising strategies
Track market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive activity through sales data, trade shows, and store visits to identify emerging trends and opportunities
Partner with Planners to refine the product mix by assessing product performance, identifying top sellers and underperformers, and shaping future assortments
Phase out underperforming items and make room for emerging trends, working closely with Planners on the data behind each decision
Contribute to custom-branded and exclusive products for partner accounts by working with designers, product developers, and manufacturers to meet guest needs and partner preferences
Collaborate with the DMD and Planner to set competitive, profitable prices through market research, cost analysis, supplier negotiation, and pricing strategy development
Analyze sales performance and profitability by tracking sales volume, gross margin, and inventory turnover, and deliver regular reports to the DMD
Manage category results against key performance indicators, including revenue, cost of goods sold, inventory turn, and SKU count
Use planning team insights and performance trends to maximize identified opportunities and keep the assortment aligned with financial goals
Confirm with the Planner that margins and initial order quantities for new items support the financial goals of the account and the organization's overall financial strategy
Collaborate with the Planner to analyze sales trends, forecast demand, and set inventory targets and replenishment schedules
Write orders as needed to maintain balanced stock levels, minimize stockouts, and maximize sales opportunities
Decide product placement within the store to align inventory strategies with merchandising goals
Provide complete, accurate, and timely item and vendor setup information to the Planner, and write initial orders for new items
Coordinate with visual, operations, marketing, IT, and finance teams so merchandising strategy aligns with business goals and operational capabilities
Ensure all products meet company quality standards and comply with relevant regulations and industry standards
Work with vendors to resolve product quality and safety issues promptly
Establish and maintain relationships with reputable vendors and suppliers
Negotiate terms, prices, and contracts alongside Planners to secure the best possible deals for the company
Support Merchandise Assistants in resolving vendor issues related to product quality, supply chain disruptions, or excessively delayed orders
Partner with other Buyers and DMDs of similar products to share vendors, streamline processes, and leverage collective buying power for better pricing and terms
Seek out suppliers that offer responsibly sourced products, emphasizing diverse vendors, local products, and sustainable materials and packaging, and integrate these values into product development

Benefits

Flex Time Off: no accruals; employees are encouraged to schedule time off as needed within business scope.
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and other voluntary benefits for you and your family; employee premiums applicable.
Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability, employer sponsored; scaled-salary pay following submission and approval of leave.
Parental Benefits: Birthing Parent Plan covers up to 6-8 weeks of fully paid leave, based on the birthing event.
SSA Paid Benefit: Up to 120 hours of Paid Leave for qualifying reasons, including Parental Leave and your or your family’s serious medical conditions.
Up to 5 days of Paid Bereavement.
On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
Meal Plan & Employee Discounts where applicable
Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws. Accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location.