Merchant - Women's

POSITION TITLE:  Merchant

REPORTS TO: Merchandise Manager

TEAM/DIRECT REPORTS:  Assistant Merchant 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Lead a cross-functional team that delivers consistent results in product innovation, sales, margin and inventory turn.  Drive strategy, innovation and development of a trend right/brand right Omni Channel product assortment for assigned category /department that meets the needs of the customer.

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 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.
• 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.
• Able to work in a hybrid environment, meaning that some work may be performed remotely but certain essential functions must be performed in-person/in-office based on the needs of the business.
• In person/in-office collaboration is required, the frequency of such in-person/in-office collaboration (e.g., portion of week, entire week) is dictated by business needs.  Such collaboration includes work centralized around product development, milestone meetings, approvals, etc.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, or equivalent required.
• 5+ years prior buying experience from a specialty retailer
• 1-2 years’ experience in a leadership role or managing a team
• Ability to manage a cross functional team. 
• Aggressive and passionate individuals will be most successful in this and future roles.
• Keen sense of fashion exhibited through personal taste. 
• Understanding of fashion designer labels and how to interpret their seasonal stories/messages for the AEO customer both domestically and internationally.
• Excellent analytical and creative skills to challenge the planning and design sides of the organization.
• Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated collaborative skills and ability to work well within a team.
• Ability to work with and influence peers and senior management.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.

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.