What are the responsibilities and job description for the Retail Buyer position at Space Needle?
GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for sales, gross margin, inventory management and turnover goals in a small subset of designated categories for 3-4 brick and mortar, high volume locations. As a member of the Space Needle LLC’s & Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibition’s management team, performance includes demonstration of the following accountabilities: leadership, communication, empowerment, and resource management.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Ability to source and manage new and applicable product lines.
- Ability to manage multiple product lines with varied aesthetic expectations.
- Quality assurance.
- Planning new merchandise assortments in conjunction with the buying team to create stories and themes consistent with our brands.
- Monitor the performance and profitability of merchandise selection.
- Identify and focus on industry and tourism trends.
- Develop new product categories, concepts and themes.
- Maintain vendor negotiations for optimum pricing, timely shipping, promotional support, favorable terms of purchase, and vendor compliance.
- Inventory management through analysis of vendor profitability, sales and inventory reports.
- Maintain budgeted gross margin levels, markdown dollars and promotions.
- Establish and maintain positive vendor relationships/partnerships.
- Support Senior Buyer and Buyer with order management, purchase order entry and vendor follow-up.
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Purchase order input and management.
- Floor plans and merchandise moves.
- Product knowledge and training.
- Physical inventory and reconciliation.
- Process price changes, transfers and return to vendors.
- Any other responsibilities defined by Management
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
- Degree in retail field or equivalent buying experience (2 years)
- Strong communication, organizational and analytical skills.
- Problem solving and follow-up skills.
- Must be willing to travel – regional /- 10%
- Ability to work independently and a good team player.
- Intermediate MS Office skills required.
- Retail Pro experience a plus.
- Must be able to communicate effectively in the English language.
The Space Needle symbolizes the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of Seattle. Our T eam Members reflect our inclusive city, diverse country, and multicultural world. As an equal opportunity employer, we make all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, the presence of any sensory, physical, or mental disability, military status, political ideology, genetic information, or any other status protected by local, state, or federal law. All Team Members and potential Team Members who apply for an opening will be considered without regard to these factors. We carefully screen applicants based on qualifications such as their training, education, skills, aptitude, experience, and previous work record.
Job Type: Full-time