Urban Outfitters Buyer - Men's Knits

Urban Outfitters is looking for a trend-obsessed, data-fluent Buyer to lead our Private Label Knits business. This person knows how to translate data, market insights, and cultural trends into a compelling assortment that balances core essentials with the fashion-forward, must-have pieces our customer wants in their closet.

They are a strong cross-functional partner who works seamlessly with Merchant, Planning, and Design to build a collection that feels highly relevant to the UO customer while delivering strong commercial results. They bring a sharp eye for product, a deep understanding of trend and customer, and proven expertise in product development and vendor communication. With a strong point of view on product and a pulse on what’s next, they will drive the category forward by identifying new opportunities, evolving the assortment, and building a business that continues to resonate with the UO customer.

Assortment Strategy

• Assist in building a balanced and brand-appropriate assortment by analyzing customer feedback and market trends.
• Support the development of core business categories while incorporating fashion newness and test silhouettes.
• Help maintain the appropriate mix of private label and branded products across categories.
• Contribute to monthly shop planning and seasonal line reviews.

Fashion & Trend Awareness

• Stay informed on fashion trends, styles, and cultural shifts through industry publications, fashion shows, and social media.
• Provide input on product selection with a strong sense of style and customer relevance.
• Monitor competitive landscape and identify emerging trends to support assortment decisions.

Product Development

• Support research of new products, suppliers, and vendors to expand the assortment.
• Collaborate with the Design team to develop relevant and fashion-forward styles.
• Assist in applying trend insights to product development, including web expansion opportunities.
• Partner with Production to help balance quality, lead times, and price/value.

Vendor Relationships

• Communicate professionally with vendors to support product development and delivery timelines.
• Assist in negotiating pricing, delivery, and terms under the guidance of the Buyer.
• Help identify and onboard new suppliers and brands to enhance the product mix.

Planning & Financial Support

• Support Open to Buy (OTB) management by maintaining flow sheets and item plans.
• Monitor business performance and assist in executing reorders, cancellations, and markdowns.
• Understand seasonality and contribute to inventory planning and profitability strategies.

Data Utilization

• Analyze sales velocity, returns, markdowns, and customer behavior to inform buying decisions.
• Participate in in-season and post-season hindsight reviews to evaluate performance and identify opportunities.
• Use data to support product recommendations and assortment adjustments.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work cross-functionally with Planning, Design, and Production teams to ensure alignment on product and business goals.
• Communicate clearly and professionally across teams and with external partners.

#LI-ME1

Education
:
Fashion or merchandising degree or equivalent experience desired.

Experience
: 3 years of experience in a buying role is preferred.

Demographic Knowledge: Demonstrate an understanding of the target customer and the ability to select the appropriate product/trend that will appeal to the customer and meet their expectations.

Analytical Understanding: Comfort with use of statistical components of the business (IMU%, MD%, GM%, selloff, WOS, etc.) and the OTB.

Communication: Positive, professional, and timely communication with teams, supporting departments, vendors, and suppliers.

Time Management: Proactively…