Associate Merchant , Petsense **Overall Job Summary** This position is responsible for supporting the buyer in all aspects of developing, communicating and executing strategic business plans. **Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Min 5%)** + Assist in the achievement of budgeted financial metrics including Sales, Comp Sales, GM$, GM%, Turn, GMROI, and Vendor Funding. + Work with the Buyer to plan, communicate, manage, and execute the line review process. + Supervise the creation and publication of all versions of planograms. + Support the Buyer with product analysis, item selections, and funding negotiations for all events, promotions, and planogrammed fixtures. Fully responsible for meeting deadlines, communicating, and executing the above listed responsibilities. + Execute details of the advertising process which includes researching previous ad sales, working with the buyer to develop forecasts, ordering for stores as required, entering items into Promo Workbench and, proofing all print advertising, + Develop and maintain a positive, productive, day-to-day working relationship with TSC shared service departments such as VMD, PMD, Inventory Control, Finance, Pricing, and IT. Serves as primary point of contact for vendor and product specific issue resolution. + Negotiate costs, scan backs, and buybacks with vendors working in conjunction with the buyer. Serve as point of contact for the vendor community (primary contact is Buyer). + Handle/oversee all interaction and communication with the Merchandise Administration Team to include, but not limited to, new vendor setup, new SKU setup, cost and retail changes, marketing, support funds, volume rebates, and markdown dollars. + Complete new store ordering process for assigned categories for all new stores including required category merchandising fixtures and POP. + Work with vendors, distributors, and Finance team to fill out VAC forms, collect appropriate signatures, and receive vendor funding. + Assist buyer in maintaining distributor sourcing to ensure efficiency, best pricing, high service levels, and reasonable minimum order quantities. + Serve as main point of contact for buying team for AskMerchants to ensure appropriate communication to the field. **Required Qualifications** Experience: 2-4 years retail experience in store ops, merchandising or Inventory Management. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail, or other related field from an accredited college or university. Any suitable combination of education and experience will be considered. **Preferred knowledge, skills or abilities** + Analytical and technical skills, including Excel and Business Objects experience. + Displays strong and demonstrated leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving capabilities. + Ability and proficiency in MS Windows and Office products. + Ability to manipulate data to drive and expedite project completion. + Ability to travel occasionally. **Working Conditions** + Normal office working conditions **Physical Requirements** + Sitting + Standing (not walking) + Walking + Kneeling/Stooping/Bending + Driving a vehicle + Lifting up to 50 pounds **Disclaimer** _This job description represents an overview of the responsibilities for the above referenced position. It is not intended to represent a comprehensive list of responsibilities. A team member should perform all duties as assigned by his/ her supervisor._ **ALREADY A TEAM MEMBER?** You must apply or refer a friend through our internal portal Click here (https://performancemanager4.successfactors.com/sf/home?company=tractorsup) **CONNECTION** Our Mission and Values are more than just words on the wall - they’re the one constant in an ever-changing environment and the bedrock on which we build our culture. They're the core of who we are and the foundation of every decision we make. It’s not just what we do that sets us apart, but how we do it. Learn More **EMPOWERMENT** We believe in managing your time for business and personal success, which is why we empower our Team Members to lead balanced lives through our benefits total rewards offerings. fot full-time and eligible part-time TSC and Petsense Team Members. We care about what you care about! Learn More **OPPORTUNITY** A lot of care goes into providing legendary service at Tractor Supply Company, which is why our Team Members are our top priority. Want a career with a clear path for growth? Your Opportunity is Out Here at Tractor Supply and Petsense. Learn More Join Our Talent Community **Nearest Major Market:** Nashville