Associate Buyers are responsible for a select part of the Buyer's overall business and must drive the merchandise strategy and assortments for this part of the business with the goal of meeting or exceeding sales, margin and turn targets. An Associate Buyer, with support from the Buyer, is responsible for the purchase and negotiation of merchandise for their business areas as well as the open to buy process. Associate Buyers partner with Planners to develop strategies to maximize business opportunities. Associate Buyers partner with the Assistant Planner to appropriately manage orders and analyze business trends.

What you will do

Develop and execute merchandise strategies and assortment plans, based on customer feedback and preferences, to deliver financial goals and business objectivesCollaborate with Buyer and Planner on development of merchandise financial plans and by-door plans by providing regular and timely input; assist in building clusters and determining assortment layersBuild and maintain strong partnerships with vendorsSelect merchandise; negotiate best costs and delivery of productIdentify business opportunities and risks in-season through analyzing sales performance and gathering marketplace information; implement strategies to ensure plans are achievedAnalyze the business to identify trends and capitalize on opportunitiesExecute advertising strategiesBuild a high quality merchant team by developing partnerships, leading, coaching and providing constructive feedbackTravels to all necessary markets and store tripsBuilds and maintains productive relationships with peers and members of the merchant teamAnalyzes business to the lowest level to identify opportunities in sales, inventory, and margin by store, department, and classReacts to business trends in a timely and efficient mannerMaintains professionalism in work relationships and habitsProvides direction, counseling and coaching to staffDevelops creative solutions to business issuesWorks effectively with staff and Divisional/BSS management to achieve sound financial and merchandising solutions based on analysis, input and experienceIdentifies emerging trends and shops competition and market regularlyCommunicates effectively with stores and vendors

Education Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree Preferred

Experience Qualifications

1-3 years of retail experience Required1-3 years in retail buying Required

Skills and Abilities

Demonstrates strong analytical and problem solving skillsIs highly organized and able to multitaskBuilds and maintains productive relationships with peers and members of the merchant teamDemonstrates leadership and decision-making skillsDemonstrates strong listening, written and oral communication skillsAnalyzes business to the lowest level to identify opportunities in sales, inventory, and margin by store, department, and classReacts to business trends in a timely and efficient mannerAdapts to shifting circumstances in a business environmentPossesses strong merchandising, product and marketing skillsProficient in business-related computer software (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, etc.)

* The job posting highlights the most relevant / essential responsibilities and requirements of the role. It is not all-inclusive. There may be additional duties, responsibilities, and qualifications for this job.

Pay Range
$65,000 - $90,000Reflected is the base pay range offered for this position. Pay may vary depending on factors including but not limited to achievements, skills, experience, or work location. The range listed is just one component of the compensation package offered to candidates.

Benefits we offer:Medical, Dental, and Vision401K with Matching ContributionGenerous PTOMerchandise DiscountsPaid Maternity and Paternal LeaveGrowth and Professional Development OpportunitiesEmployee Assistance ProgramsEducation and Tuition Reimbursement Programs

*Benefit eligibility dependent on role and/or full-time/part-time status

Your career. Your runway.

At Belk, we’re focused on what matters most to our customers and associates. We try new things and adapt quickly. Whether showcasing emerging fashion trends or embracing new ways of doing business, we approach our work with curiosity and a problem-solving mentality. We've been doing that for more than 135+ years and continue to evolve!

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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Belk is an equal-opportunity employer committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are to be made without regard to race, color, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, hair style, hair texture, religion, marital status, pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, physical/mental disability, genetic information, military/veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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