Position Overview:The Divisional Merchandise Manager is responsible for overseeing the execution of merchandise selection and procurement for their assigned categories. Additional responsibilities include developing strategies to maximize business performance, driving profitability, open-to-buy management, promotional and marketing strategy, leading, and maintaining strong vendor relationships. Divisional Merchandise Manager must be able to lead with active engagement in key merchandising decisions and not oversight alone.
Primary Responsibilities:- Develop strategies in support of the total company category improvement.
- Initiate and direct all aspects of the buying process to ensure purchase of the best products at the best price.
- Operate and stay within the company's departmental budgets
- Create the overall strategy and merchandise direction for assigned categories.
- Create and maintain vendor relationships to obtain and develop desired products that meet the margin expectations.
- Negotiate prices, discount terms and transportation arrangements for merchandise.
- Analyze and establish retail and mark down pricing for merchandise.
- Survey and monitor sales, trends, and economic conditions to determine sales and how much inventory is needed.
- Ensure that pricing, promotional strategies, and marketing support the financial objectives of the company.
- Facilitate and promote timely communication and cooperation between stores, merchandising functions, and Distribution Centers.
- Additional responsibilities to be determined as business needs arise.
Qualifications:- Higher education, including two- and four-year degrees related to business management required.
- Minimum of 8 years of experience as a buyer or demonstration of skills and learning through an internal development program and selection process.
- Minimum of 5 years supervisory experience
- Ability to effectively manage in a professional work environment.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment.
- Efficient planning, prioritization and implementation of detailed instructions.
- Ability to learn and communicate new information and processes to all associates within company standards.
- Outstanding interpersonal and listening skills. Education, Skills, and/or Work Experience Requirements
Physical Requirements:- Travel to trade shows, conferences, and stores, including overnight travel, is required.
- Ability to remain in a normal seated position regularly.
- Ability to grip, reach, and pinch with arms and hands frequently.
- Ability to bend and twist occasionally.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
- Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
