We are currently searching for a Merchant - Womens Apparel to join our team in Middleton, MA.

JOB SUMMARY

The Merchant is responsible for the execution of Omni assortment and brand strategy, vendor negotiations and vendor relationships to deliver financial results for assigned product categories.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Accountable for assigned categories (P&L), Revenue, Gross Margin and Turn. Create and present seasonal business plans that clearly state merchandising objectives for the next season in an actionable format – considering Print & Digital platforms to support an Omni product vision. Develop assortment plans that support the department goals and key item focus. Determine merchandise opportunities through thorough analysis of past and present sales and trends by style, color, and size that maximize sales & margin to meet the customer’s needs. Partner with the Design, Sourcing, Planning, Inventory Control, and Technical Design teams on the development of assortment plans, fit of styles, order placement and pricing, as well as discounting and clearance strategies. Select and procure Market products (both branded and private label) that support the category strategies and overall seasonal design concepts. Negotiate Market vendor product selections price and terms of purchase to achieve financial goals. Shop the competitive market and interpret trends that will fit our customer’s lifestyle and objectives. Work cross-functionally with the Marketing department, that includes eCommerce and Creative teams within the organization to execute brand & category strategies along with pricing & promotions that achieve financial goals; this includes detailed proofing of upcoming print and web vehicles for accuracy in pricing and style details. Mentor Associate Buyers and Assistant Buyers. Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent. 3-5 years of buying experience with a passion for fashion, and a strong entrepreneurial drive. Strong understanding of brand demographic. The buyer must have a high taste level in brand editing, product development, color, print, and design. Demonstrated ability to select, procure and develop products based on our target demographic. Demonstrated ability to run P&L of category, pricing strategy, and sales margin. Strong analytical and negotiating skills. Demonstrated ability to think creatively. Must have significant knowledge of merchandising trends and their financial implications. Ability to work with other buyers to create and outfit various looks. Have strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and prioritize deliverables. Must be able to travel as needed. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel report driven via V-Lookups and Pivot Tables) products and social media.

 

ABOUT BLUESTEM BRANDS

Bluestem Brands combines Fingerhut, a fintech company, and Orchard Brands a direct-to-consumer retailer of fashion. Bluestem is headquartered in Eden Prairie, MN and employs employees throughout the country.

Orchard Brands is a portfolio of four lifestyle apparel brands including Blair, Draper's & Damon's, Appleseed’s, and Haband.

 Orchard Brands provides lifestyle apparel through a diversified multi-brand portfolio, delivering a direct-to-consumer experience with exclusive fits, assortment and value. We provide clothing designed for every day and any occasion to ensure our customers have wardrobe solutions that fit their life across our brands, including: Blair, providing the perfect fit for your style, budget and you since our founding in 1910 in Warren, Pennsylvania (www.blair.com) Appleseed’s, providing classics you can count on since our founding in 1946 in Beverly, Massachusetts (www.appleseeds.com) Draper’s & Damon’s, which has helped make every entrance count since 1927 in Pasadena, California (www.drapers.com), and Haband (www.blair.com/haband), which has been delivering comfort and style at a great low price for over 90 years.

At Orchard, you will find responsive and supportive leaders who empower our employees, knowing they drive our success. We are continually innovating and improving, challenging ourselves to take risks, learn from mistakes, and celebrate success as a team. We also grow careers - giving employees on-the-job stretch assignments, lateral moves to expand their knowledge base, and promotional opportunities that help accelerate their career development.

Join our Orchard Brands Team to be inspired, make an impact, and feel valued every day.