Department: Merchandising Title: Merchandise Buyer Reports to: Division Merchandising Manager or Merchandise Manager FLSA Status: Exempt Location: New York/Hybrid JOB SUMMARY: The Merchandise Buyer is responsible for selecting and purchasing products that align with our retail strategy and meet customer demands. You will work closely with vendors, analyze market trends, and manage inventory to ensure that we offer a compelling and competitive product assortment. The Merchandise Buyer will play a critical role in building a positive work culture, driving employee involvement, and supporting change management efforts within the retail organization. DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Research and identify trends, and select merchandise that aligns with the companys brand, market demand, and sales objectives. Must be a student of the business, best in class. Shopping Citi Trends and Competition a must. Negotiate with suppliers and vendors to secure the best prices, terms, and delivery schedules. Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. Monitor inventory levels to ensure optimal stock levels. Make recommendations for reordering and discontinuing products based on sales data and market trends. Analyze sales data, market trends, and customer feedback to make informed purchasing decisions. Develop reports and presentations to communicate findings and strategies. Develop and manage purchasing budgets to ensure cost-effectiveness. Track spending and work within budget constraints to maximize profitability. Work closely with the merchandising, marketing, and store operations teams to align product selections with promotional plans and store layouts. Ensure that purchased products meet quality standards and adhere to company guidelines. Conduct market visits to assess performance, uphold brand standards, and identify improvement opportunities. Performs other duties as may be assigned REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES: Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends. Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with buying software and tools. Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing market conditions. Willingness to travel for vendor meetings, trade shows, and other business-related activities as needed. Excel knowledge a must. This position requires up to 40% travel. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Bachelors degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, or a related field. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a Merchandise Buyer or in a similar role within a retail environment. Minimum 3 years' experience as a Buyer PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee must frequently use their hands to handle or feel objects and must be able to speak and hear clearly. The employee may occasionally need to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, distance vision, and depth perception. The employee must be able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. GENERAL INFORMATION: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel so classified. Equal employment opportunities are provided to all employees and applicants for employment. Discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. is prohibited.