Merchandising Buyer Trainee. Mattoon LilyLifestyle

Join Our Buyer in Training Program!

The Buyer in Training program is an enriching 12-18 month journey aimed at preparing ambitious individuals for a dynamic career in merchandising. Throughout this program, you will gain profound expertise in essential buying competencies such as:

• Advanced category management
• Strategic assortment planning
• Building strong vendor partnerships
• Margin optimization strategies
• Collaborating across marketing and operations
• Developing negotiation skills

• Establishing and nurturing effective vendor relationships
• Collaborating with suppliers on product innovation and private brand development
• Managing vendor allowances and promotional strategies
• Negotiating pricing and vendor terms for optimal outcomes
• Acting as the primary contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Working closely with Logistics to enhance product flow to stores
• Collaborating with Replenishment and Planning teams for smooth order management
• Visiting stores to ensure open communication and address in-store challenges
• Monitoring market trends and the competitive landscape
• Managing product pricing and inventory to achieve budget targets
• Identifying new product opportunities aligned with customer preferences
• Conducting annual category reviews and supporting various category tasks
• Assisting in developing seasonal merchandise assortments and pricing plans
• Attending product shows and supplier visits relevant to your categories
• Tracking and ensuring timely delivery of orders
• Collaborating with Inventory Planners to enhance product performance
• Reviewing inventory strategies and making actionable recommendations
• Reacting to seasonal product performance with agility
• Partnering with Marketing to develop compelling advertising plans
• Maintaining knowledge of sales and inventory trends
• Utilizing reports to support data-driven decision-making
• Handling assortment planning and product lifecycle effectively
• Creating financial plans that align with business goals
• Collaborating for optimal in-stock levels on key items
• Addressing poor-performing items to minimize inventory liabilities
• Partnering on preseason flow plans and inventory projections
• Formulating promotional plans to elevate sales and store traffic
• Achieving high in-stock accuracy for promotional items
• Working with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment and marketing strategies
• Providing timely direction on new SKUs for Store Planning
• Ensuring accuracy in planograms align with store capacity
• Leading teams to drive sales and effectively manage inventory
• Communicating a clear vision for merchandising strategies
• Inspiring team growth through mentorship and development
• Leading pivotal projects that contribute to company success
• Influencing the strategic direction of the merchandising department
• Adopting principles from Rural King's Thrive Leadership Program
• Maintaining discretion and exercising independent judgment
• Actively engaging in training and development opportunities
• Providing professional support to internal and external partners
• Embodying Rural King's core values:
  People First, Integrity, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement
• Performing additional duties as assigned
• Successfully transitioning into a Buyer role within 18 months

No supervisory duties required.

• 2-3 years of experience in retail or merchandising, or equivalent education and experience
• Strong potential for growth in a fast-paced environment
• Exceptional analytical and strategic thinking abilities
• Proven capability in solving complex problems and making data-driven decisions
• Great communication and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel skills preferred
• Willingness to learn Oracle systems
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Skilled in negotiation and conflict resolution
• Solid understanding of retail operations and best practices
• Integrity and professionalism aligned with company values

• Ability to remain seated or stand for extended durations
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds periodically
• Ability to navigate all areas of company facilities
• Effective verbal communication in person and digitally
• Close visual focus for computer tasks

Reasonable accommodations may be made to support individuals with disabilities in fulfilling job functions.

The compensation for this position ranges from $70,000 to $90,000 annually, with eligibility for bonuses. The final amount depends on factors such as geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs.