Merchandising Associate Trainee. Mattoon Move Collective

How We Reward You

• 401(k) plan with a 100% match on the first 3% and 50% on the next 2%
• Healthcare plans catered to your needs
• Virtual doctor visits
• Access to Centers of Excellence, including 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 spans 12-18 months, designed to prepare emerging talent for a future role in merchandising. This program fosters deep expertise in successful buying competencies including:

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

• Build and maintain effective vendor partnerships
• Collaborate on product development with suppliers and the Global Sourcing team
• Manage vendor allowances, marketing programs, and promotional strategies
• Negotiate pricing, vendor terms, and promotional opportunities
• Act as the main point of contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Coordinate with Logistics and DC teams to enhance product flow
• Work alongside Replenishment and Planning teams on product management
• Regularly visit Rural King stores to understand in-store challenges

• Analyze market trends and competitive landscapes
• Oversee product pricing, sales, profit margins, and turnover to meet budget targets
• Identify new product opportunities aligned with customer needs
• Conduct annual category line reviews and support additional category initiatives
• Develop seasonal merchandise assortments, pricing, and merchandising plans
• Attend product shows and supplier visits as required for assigned categories

• Track and ensure timely deliveries of new store orders
• Collaborate with Inventory Planners to enhance product performance
• Review inventory strategies and implement recommendations
• Monitor seasonal product performance and respond accordingly
• Partner with Marketing on advertising, promotions, and marketing materials
• Stay informed on sales, inventory, and profit trends
• Generate and analyze reports to support data-driven decisions
• Manage product lifecycle processes and assortment planning
• Support the creation of financial plans (Open-to-Buy) in line with company goals
• Work with Replenishment Analysts for optimal in-stock levels
• Identify underperforming items to minimize inventory liabilities
• Collaborate on inventory projections and preseason flow plans

• Create and propose promotional plans that drive sales and store traffic
• Ensure high accuracy for print advertising items at 98.5%
• Collaborate with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment, placement, and marketing strategies

• Provide guidance on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
• Ensure planograms are accurate and suited to store volume

• Lead teams to drive sales, manage inventory, and achieve financial targets
• Communicate a clear strategic vision including visual merchandising strategies
• Inspire and mentor team members for personal and professional growth
• Drive impactful projects that contribute to Rural King’s success
• Influence the strategic direction of the department
• Exhibit values from Rural King's Thrive Leadership Program
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise independent judgment
• Engage in training and development opportunities
• Provide professional support to various internal and external partners
• Uphold Rural King’s core values:
  People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, Continuous Improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Transition successfully into a Buyer role within 18 months

No

• 2‑3 years of experience in retail, merchandising, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong potential for growth in a fast‑paced environment
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and business acumen
• Proven problem‑solving…