POSITION TITLE:  Merchant – Aerie 

REPORTS TO:  Divisional Merchandise Manager

TEAM/DIRECT REPORTS:  Assistant Merchant 

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Lead a cross-functional team that delivers consistent results in product innovation, sales, margin and inventory turn.  Drive strategy, innovation and development of a trend right/brand right Omni Channel product assortment for assigned category /department that meets the needs of the Aerie customer.

 

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Establish, drive and execute a strategic Omni product vision and business plan through effective communication and coordination with cross-functional business partners inclusive of design, international merchandising, planning, inventory planning, etc. Work closely with Design team to interpret and forecast trends for assigned areas through the Aerie customer lens.  Develop and assort trend right and brand right product.  Understand (at all times) competition and marketplace inclusive of Brick and Mortar AND Digital competition.  Make brand right and informed decisions for assigned departments/categories based upon the competitive landscape/marketplace and the needs of the Aerie customer. In partnership with the planning team, establish seasonal strategic plans for sales, markdowns, inventory, and growth opportunity.  Effectively manage in-season business to maximize topline sales and minimize markdowns. Work in conjunction with planning to manage the Open-to-Buy as far as receipts, sales, margin, markdowns, and Weeks of Supply. Analyze performance and plans constantly to look for sales and margin opportunities to exceed plan; quickly adapt and respond to changes/trends occurring in the business and in the marketplace. Develop and drive test and react strategy across all channels.  Effectively and efficiently run business meetings to ensure objectives and deadlines are met. Perform other duties as assigned. Able to work in a hybrid environment, meaning that some work may be performed remotely but certain essential functions must be performed in-person/in-office based on the needs of the business. In person/in-office collaboration is required, the frequency of such in-person/in-office collaboration (e.g., portion of week, entire week) is dictated by business needs.  Such collaboration includes work centralized around product development, milestone meetings, approvals, etc.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, or equivalent required. 5+ years prior buying experience from a specialty retailer 1-2 years’ experience in a leadership role or managing a team Ability to manage a cross functional team.  Aggressive and passionate individual will be most successful in this and future roles. Keen sense of fashion exhibited through personal taste.  Understanding of fashion designer labels and how to interpret their seasonal stories/messages for the AE customer both domestically and internationally. Excellent analytical and creative skills to challenge the planning and design sides of the organization. Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated collaborative skills and ability to work well within a team. Ability to work with and influence peers and senior management. Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment. Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.

 

PAY/BENEFITS INFORMATION: Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location. Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits. Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service.  For additional information, please click HERE. AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.