Buyer In-Training

How we reward you

• 401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%
• Healthcare plans to support your needs
• Virtual doctor visits
• Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program
• 15% Associate Discount
• Dave Ramsey’s Smart Dollar Program
• Associate Assistance Program
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
• 24/7 Chaplaincy Services
• Company paid YMCA Family Membership

The Buyer in Training program is a 12–18-month development pathway designed to prepare high-potential talent for a future role in merchandising. This role builds deep expertise in the core competencies of successful buying, including:

• Advanced category management
• Strategic assortment planning
• Vendor partnership development
• Margin optimization strategies
• Cross‑functional collaboration with marketing and operations
• Negotiation skill development

• Develop strong, effective vendor partnerships
• Collaborate with suppliers on product development and with the Global Sourcing team on private brand and product label development
• Manage vendor allowances, marketing programs, and promotional strategies
• Negotiate pricing, vendor terms, opportunity buys, and free goods
• Serve as the main point of contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Partner with Logistics and DC teams to optimize product flow to stores
• Work closely with Replenishment and Planning teams on product flow and order management
• Visit Rural King stores to maintain open communication and understand in‑store challenges

• Monitor market trends and competitive landscape
• Manage product pricing, sales, profit margins, and turnover to meet budgeted targets
• Identify and pursue new product opportunities that align with customer needs
• Conduct 2–3 annual category line reviews and support other category duties as assigned
• Develop seasonal merchandise assortments, pricing, and merchandising plans
• Attend product shows and visit suppliers as relevant to assigned categories

• Place, track, and ensure timely delivery of all new store orders
• Collaborate with Inventory Planners to analyze and improve product performance
• Review recommendations and determine appropriate actions on inventory strategies
• Monitor seasonal product performance and react accordingly
• Partner with Marketing on advertising plans, promotions, and ad flyers
• Maintain current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends
• Generate and interpret reports to support data‑driven decisions
• Manage assortment planning and product lifecycle processes
• Help create financial plans (Open‑to‑Buy) aligned with company goals
• Work with Replenishment Analysts to optimize in‑stock levels on core items
• Identify and address poor‑performing items and reduce inventory liabilities
• Collaborate on preseason flow plans and inventory projections

• Develop and submit promotional plans that drive sales and store traffic
• Ensure 98.5% in‑stock accuracy for print advertising items
• Collaborate with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies—a key focus area

• Provide timely direction on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
• Ensure planograms are accurate, timely, and appropriate to store volume and space

• Lead teams to drive sales, manage inventory, and meet financial goals
• Communicate a clear strategic vision, including visual merchandising strategies
• Inspire and mentor team members to grow personally and professionally
• Lead impactful projects that support Rural King’s success and growth
• Influence the strategic direction of the department
• Exhibit leadership principles taught in Rural King’s Thrive Leadership Program
• Exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Actively participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Provide friendly, professional support to internal and external partners
• Uphold Rural King’s core values:
  • People First
  • Integrity
  • Attitude
  • Initiative
  • Teamwork
  • Accountability
  • Continuous Improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Successfully transition into a Buyer role…