Assistant Buyer in Birmingham, AL at Books-A-Million, Inc.

Date Posted: 3/9/2023

Job Snapshot

Job Description

As part of the Buying team, the Assistant Buyer helps to create timely product assortments that maximize sales and profit. The successful candidate will be self-starting, flexible, highly organized, and results oriented. You must have the proven ability to work well under pressure in a demanding environment where teamwork is key. The Assistant Buyer will be career-oriented with a strong desire to take on increasing levels of responsibility.

 

Responsibilities
Management of Assigned Categories (60%)  

 

  • Executes merchandising activities including full life cycle of purchase orders through judgement and problem solving.
  • Produces financial sales recaps and analysis to identify new and existing business opportunities. Communicates findings and advocates for intended purchases.
  • Takes initiative to develop collaborative vendor relationships, including cost negotiation, problem resolution and follow up.
  • Makes independent decisions on proper maintenance of data accuracy and integrity for the company without supervision.
  • Ensures timely delivery of merchandise via consistent communication and follow up with publishers, vendors, and distribution center.
  • Develops product planograms for in store merchandise sets that drive sales and fixture productivity.
  • Communicates regularly with stores using appropriate communication channels.
  • Travels to trade shows, vendor meetings and store visits.

 

Buyer and Division Support (40%)

  • Executes cooperative marketing contracts and incentives including vendor promotional partnerships
  • Provides organizational support for cross functional team projects.
    • Monitors competitor merchandising and shares findings with stakeholders.
    • Projects as assigned by the Buyer/Divisional Merchandise Manager or Vice President.
 

 

Job Requirements

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in merchandising or business-related field or equivalent combination of work experience
  • 2 -3 years of retail or relevant sales experience which may include retail internship

 

Qualifications:

  • Able to work independently and thrive in a multi-task, fast paced environment within an area that spans a high breadth of titles
  • Exercise independent judgement to make decisions and work with minimal supervision
  • Display strong business acumen with the ability to analyze data and draw conclusions
  • Demonstrate assertiveness and intellectual curiosity
  • Exhibit high standards, accountability, attention to detail and accuracy
  • Utilize time management skills to include prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines
  • Develop strong business partnerships both internally and externally
  • Adaptable, flexible and persevere to overcome obstacles
  • Present information effectively and accurately, expressing ideas clearly and concisely
  • Prefer proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint



Special Requirements:

  • Up to 25% travel may be required depending upon area assigned.
  • This job is hybrid with a combination of work from home and in office based in our Birmingham AL office.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

  • Must be able to sit at a computer or desk for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to use hands/arms to operate keyboard, telephone and for repetitive motion activities.
  • Must be able to lift objects up to 25 lbs. with or without assistance.
  • Must be able to communicate using speech, sight, and sound with or without assistive device.
  • Must be able to stand, walk, stoop or crouch while performing daily activities of the job.
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