Associate Merchant - Women's

POSITION TITLE:   Omni Associate Merchant 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Responsible for supporting the implementation and execution of strategies to drive a compelling and holistic assortment for the AEO Brand. This individual will play a critical role on a small, high-performing team to drive business results and category growth through industry research, strategy and product development, and overall execution.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Establish, drive and execute a strategic Omni product vision and business plan through effective communication and coordination with cross-functional business partners inclusive of design, international merchandising, planning, etc.
• Work closely with Design team to interpret and forecast trends for assigned areas through the customer lens.  Develop and assort trend right and brand right product. Drive product innovation.
• Understand (at all times) competition and marketplace inclusive of Brick and Mortar AND Digital competition.  Make brand right and informed decisions for assigned departments/categories based upon the competitive landscape/marketplace and the needs of the aerie customer.
• In partnership with the planning team, establish seasonal strategic plans for sales, markdowns, inventory, and growth opportunity.  Effectively manage in-season business to maximize topline sales and minimize markdowns. Work in conjunction with planning to manage the Open-to-Buy as far as receipts, sales, margin, markdowns, and Weeks of Supply.
• Analyze performance and plans constantly to look for sales and margin opportunities to exceed plan; quickly adapt and respond to changes/trends occurring in the business and in the marketplace.
• Responsible for building an edited collection for the varying aerie formats that maximize sales and margin while meeting the customer needs within reduced space. 
• Develop and drive  test and react strategy across all channels. 
• Effectively and efficiently run business meetings to ensure objectives and deadlines are met.
• Perform other duties as assigned

KEY BUSINESS PARTNERS:

• Design
• Production
• Merchandise & Inventory Planning
• Business Strategies
• Marketing
• Site Merchandising

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Retail, Finance, or Business focus preferred.
• 3+ experience as an Assistant Merchant and/ or Associate Merchant from a specialty store
• The ability to operate in both a strategic and hands-on capacity is required.
• Passionate with a keen sense of the latest fashion trends while being able to interpret them for the aerie customer. 
• Strong organization, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. Demonstrated ability to sell and influence.
• Strong financial and analytical skills; ability to utilize Google Office Suite.
• Demonstrated success in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment; flexibility and team orientation.
• Ability to act as liaison between cross functional teams. 
• Ability to travel.

Pay/Benefits Information:

• Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location.
• Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service.  For additional information, please click here.
• AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.