The Associate Merchandiser is responsible for managing a category of business through partnership with the cross functional team, and leading team members in the overall direction of a merchandise classification. The Associate Merchandiser is responsible for merchandise management that meets or exceeds financial goals of an overall product classification. They are accountable for delivering a best-in-class assortments and product offerings. The Associate Merchandiser upholds the brand filter and product integrity across given category. They assist in identifying white space in the business and go after volume driving ideas.
Position Responsibilities:
• Develop financial plans, line plans and production needs to drive business with overall accountability for meeting and exceeding financial goals of a department
• Own season assortment planning, line development and merchandise selection (editing)
• Mentor, train & develop Associate/Assistant Merchandisers. Delegate tasks, monitor progress, and provide feedback.
• Create processes and systems within the department that enhance efficiency and optimize the talent of the team
• Communicate all relevant business information to direct reports
• Maintain an understanding of the target customer profile through market data and competitive shopping analysis
• Analyze sales and customer trends and make adjustments to maximize the business.
• Surface pricing and promo strategies, potential upside opportunities and risks
• Determine appropriate sku’s to size of business, floor space and visual standards.
• Work with planning partner to develop financial plans and monitor ongoing progress
• Combine line plan with design vision to build assortments
• Continuously assess current business and trends to ensure that future items are relevant and timely
• Relay merchandise/detail needs to production partner; Maintain continuous communication regarding any critical changes
• Monitor shipping and deliveries; Develop strategy to shift business if necessary
• Filter information to draw inferences, create solutions, and adjust strategies to maximize the business and drive the merchandising process forward.
• Proactively seek out new opportunities to grow the business and further personal & professional development.
• Demonstrates a curiosity for fashion and business opportunities
• Identify key trends in fashion and marketplace that are relevant to the brand and business
Position Requirements:
• Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience
• At least 3-4 years of merchandising or buying experience
• Proven leadership ability
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills
• Understanding of fashion trends and how they relate to the Aero customer
• Ability to build strong working relationships with cross functional teams
• Strong presentation skills
• Ability to multitask and adjust to shifting priorities in a fast paced environment
• Commitment to learning and continuous development
• Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel
Reasonable Accommodation
The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to enable qualified employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Catalyst Brands is an equal opportunity employer. We value a culture of inclusion and diversity within our workforce, and are committed to maintaining a workplace free from prohibited employment conduct, including discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, domestic partner status, civil partnership, status as a covered veteran, status in the Uniformed Services of the United States, citizenship and any other characteristic protected by law (“Protected Characteristics”).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
- Ability to maintain regular and timely attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
- Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours per day
- Ability to constantly operate a computer, other office equipment and look at a monitor for up to 8 hours per day
- Ability to clearly and accurately communicate and exchange information verbally, in writing, or through other means in person, telephonically, or through virtual communication methods
- Ability to reach at or below shoulder level
- Ability to carry equipment, move boxes/samples, etc.
