Assistant Buyer, Kids Fashion - DSW

ASSISTANT BUYER     

General Summary:

Supports the creation and execution of the merchandise strategy for assigned department. This position translates information and decisions from the Senior Buyer and/or Buyer to ensure the smooth operation of the buying office. This position also partners with planning, online merchandising, and marketing teams to drive sales. This role manages the flow of information into and out of the buying office. This position is HYBRID-Columbus, OH office.

Reports to:  Buyer

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
•    Analyzes selling reports and provides insights by CC (style/color) to the Buyer
•    Supports Merchant in reacting to current business trends
•    Manages manual Open To Buy (OTB) changes and updates tracking
•    Works in M.A.P. system choosing appropriate product attributes; supports Domestic and Exclusive Brand; suggests retail of closeout orders
•    Localizes assortment by DST store group, using appropriate sales trend information
•    Provides competitive intelligence, trend observations and style analysis to Buyer
•    Partners with vendor or Buyer on shifts, reorders, or cancels
•    Reviews PO Tracking Report to ensure shipments are timely and ensures arrival aligns with marketing timing; identifies ship issues and makes recommendations to resolve
•    Works cross functionally with Planning team to align on distribution strategy, executes both preseason and in season strategy, and ensures key item deliveries are appropriate and timely
•    Prepares reports and documents for the Buyer and attends vendor appointments
•    Processes closeout orders including competitive analysis, suggested cost and retail, and OTB management
•    Recommends pricing for incoming orders, executes according to Buyer direction
•    Manages the outdate process and make recommendations based on business trends
•    Maintains PA Sample document; collaborates with Marketing team on submissions and contacts vendors for sample requests
•    Participates in and documents information in monthly and/or quarterly product hind sights
•    Works with Buyer and Associate Buyer to understand the creation of the annual and seasonal financial plans
•    Works cross functionally with Planning team to align on distribution strategy, executes both preseason and in season strategy, and ensures key item deliveries are appropriate and timely   
•    At the discretion of the buyer will “own” a subclass within a category.  

Required Skills:
•    Strong attention to detail and highly organized
•    Excellent communication (written and verbal) and follow up skills
•    Strong analytical skills
•    Team player

Competencies
SETTING GOALS – Creates and follow effective plans. Anticipates risks, creates contingency plans. Aligns plans with goals. Allocates adequate resources. Accepts and supports change. Willing to take risks and suggests new ideas, approaches. Takes initiative. Seeks out learning activities. 

WORKING WITH OTHERS – Clearly articulates own, other’s goals. Promotes a team atmosphere by demonstrating humility and respect. Builds effective relationships, relates well to others. Delivers and responds to feedback in a constructive manner. Considers multiple perspectives. Handles conflict, pressure, uncertainty and adapts independently. Meets commitments. Dedicated to working with business partners on their expectations.

GETTING RESULTS – Personally accountable for work performance targets and achieving results. Prioritizes well. Anticipates and handles obstacles effectively. Makes good, timely decisions. Can simply and process complex problems. Understands underlying issues and addresses root causes. Meets deadlines, works until finished.

Qualifications
•    Previous retail experience a plus

Preferred Qualifications:
•    Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel and Word skills
•    Ability to learn Microstrategy and other merchant computer based systems

Minimum Education:
•    Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Retail Merchandising, Marketing or Business related field