Associate Buyer
Our client is seeking an Associate Buyer to join their Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Buying team. This role is an integral contributor, supporting daily operations across specific apparel categories and playing a key role in reporting accuracy and inventory management.
The ideal candidate is an analytical and strategic thinker who is highly detail-oriented, collaborative, and organized. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word is required, along with a solid understanding of retail math, Open-to-Buy (OTB), assortment planning, and SKU management.
Key Responsibilities
Buying & Merchandising
- Manage day-to-day operations for assigned apparel categories
- Provide administrative and operational support to buying and planning teams
- Maintain strong relationships with vendors and internal product teams
- Create and maintain purchase orders
- Attend market and vendor appointments to develop merchandising, product selection, and negotiation skills
- Analyze consumer buying patterns, forecast trends, and conduct market research
- Collaborate cross-functionally with stores, merchandising, planning, and other partners to ensure smooth execution
Inventory Management
- Maintain accurate pricing and execute pricing updates
- Track and manage inventory KPIs to respond to demand and supply chain changes
- Support accurate inventory management through data entry and system maintenance
- Maintain organized records related to orders and vendor communication
- Handle order entry and style creation
Reporting & Analysis
- Generate and analyze weekly selling reports, recap decks, and other performance reporting
- Forecast sales levels using historical and real-time data
- Develop and maintain documentation explaining report usage and data sources
- Monitor sales, margin, and other performance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement
Operations & Communication
- Communicate pricing, merchandising strategies, and monthly directives to store teams
- Coordinate sample organization and other administrative business operations
Skills, Knowledge & Abilities
- Strategic, results-driven mindset
- Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills
- Passion for retail, product, and data-driven decision-making
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
- Working knowledge of retail math, OTB, assortment planning, and SKU management
- Brand management experience is a plus
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required
- 2-3 years of relevant experience in buying, merchandising, or a related retail function
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.