Assistant Buyer

Job Summary

Reporting to the Buyer, the Assistant Buyer will be accountable in assisting, maintaining and developing the assigned product categories. The person will gather and analyze information for merchandising plans, improve product offerings, prepare various reports and maintain relationships with vendors.

Key Accountabilities

• Identify new opportunities, such as new items presented by key vendors, sourcing items from other retailers, analyzing the market in identifying retail opportunities, and maximizing trends;
• Maintain and analyze product categories and ensure the correct cost;
• Visit competing retailers and identify product and retail pricing opportunities; 
• Identify and propose new product selection by spending time in our stores;  
• Find new suppliers by attending Trade Shows in Asia;
• Understand vendors’ strengths and weaknesses to limit risk; 
• Ensure the quality of goods through supervision of approval samples; 
• Assist in the completion and tracking of purchase orders; and
• Attend buyer meetings, seasonal presentations and travel with the Buyer as needed.
   

Job Requirements

• Diploma, DEC or AEC in Buying, Supply Chain, or related field; 
• Two (2) to five (5) years of buying experience in the retail or import industry;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills combined with a keen attention to detail; 
• Strong decision-making skills with the ability to handle tight deadlines and competing priorities;
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and high volume environment;
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with ability to build working relationships; and 
• Flexible and available to travel when necessary.