Job DescriptionCompany-Owned and Franchise MarketsAbout the RoleAs the Buyer, you will own assortment strategy and financial performance for assigned global businesses. You will directly manage company-owned retail and DTC businesses while guiding franchise partners in translating Williams Sonoma brand strategy into locally relevant assortments and execution. This role combines financial ownership, market insight, cross-functional leadership and people development to deliver profitable growth and consistent brand expression
ResponsibilitiesCompany-Owned Markets- Own annual and seasonal assortment strategies for Williams Sonoma company-owned retail and DTC markets and for Rejuvenation and Mark & Graham company-owned DTC markets, aligning brand direction with local customer demand, climate, seasonality and channel needs.
- Drive sales, margin, inventory productivity and profitability by analyzing performance on a daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal, quarterly and annual basis and recommending chase, reorder, transfer, promotional, markdown and exit actions.
- Partner with Inventory Management and Allocation to develop financial plans, forecasts, receipt strategies, inventory flow and stocking recommendations that support market and channel objectives.
- Lead retail and digital go-to-market execution with Ecommerce, Marketing, Creative, Visual and Store Operations, influencing site placement, email, social, floorsets and promotional support based on demand and inventory.
- Identify and execute growth opportunities across category expansion, dropship, local vendors, Trade, B2B and other initiatives while resolving product, pricing, quality, reticketing and customer-service issues.
- Coach and develop Associate Buyers and Assistant Buyers, establish clear priorities and accountability, and create scalable merchandising tools and processes across assigned businesses.
Franchise Markets- Lead the Williams Sonoma merchandising strategy across assigned franchise markets, translating company-led seasonal direction into locally relevant assortment recommendations that maintain brand integrity.
- Analyze partner sales, inventory and category performance, lead regular business reviews and influence investment, pricing, launches, marketing and in-season actions to improve results.
- Align internal teams and franchise partners on assortment selections, ordering timelines, product availability, SKU setup, product information, imagery and launch milestones across retail and DTC channels.
- Coordinate operational requirements including import documentation, testing, packaging, labeling and issue resolution, while building accountable partner relationships and identifying opportunities to expand categories and channels
Criteria- BA/BS degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of buying, merchandising or related retail experience.
- Proven experience leading and developing Associate Buyers, Assistant Buyers or other direct reports.
- Experience managing multiple brands, markets or channels; international, franchise, wholesale or partner-operated business experience preferred.
- Advanced retail math, financial analysis and inventory-management skills.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, advanced formulas and lookup functions.
- Experience in Assortment planning, reporting and product-management systems.
- Strong product sensibility and elevated taste level, with the ability to translate brand strategy into locally relevant assortments.
- Strong cross-functional influence, problem-solving, project-management and presentation skills, with agility in a fast-paced environment.
- This role requires onsite work in the San Francisco office Monday through Thursday, with Friday optional in the office.
People FirstPutting People First means investing in overall well-being and opportunities to grow and advance within the organization. Depending on the position and location, here are a few highlights of what benefits may be available:
Benefits- A generous discount on all WSI brands
- A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities
- Paid vacations, holidays, and time off to volunteer
- Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits
- Tax-free commuter benefits
- A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health
Continued Learning- In-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University
- Cross-brand and cross-function career opportunities
- Resources for self-development
- Advisor (Mentor) program
- Career development workshops, learning programs, and speaker series
WSI will not now or in the future commence an immigration case or "sponsor" an individual for this position (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration).
This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.
The expected starting pay range for this position is $97,000 - $115,500. Applicable pay ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to competitive pay, compensation may include a variety of other components like benefits, paid time off, merit, and bonus opportunities.
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