Associate Buyer - Diamond, Bridal, Gems (Hybrid)

The Associate Buyer works with the Buyer or Sr. Buyer in identifying, executing and communicating long term and seasonal merchandise strategies through the development of assortment plans. The Associate Buyer will control merchandising and marketing messages that meet or exceed sales, profit and inventory plans for JCPenney Stores and JCP.com

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop a competitive merchandise assortment plan that is customer focused and adjusts to sales plans based on competition, business needs, and fashion/industry trends
• Manage all aspects of assortment, product placement, order writing, marketing, pricing, signing, and markdowns
• Build strong product assortments with suppliers and negotiate pricing and inventory for assigned categories
• Utilize open-to-buy to manage business pre-season and in-season while working in tangent with Planner to maximize business opportunities
• Evaluate suppliers on new and existing products, including but not limited to quality, pricing, shipping time, customer demand and return on investment
• Integrate brand, sourcing, marketing and supply chain functions into the merchandising process to make business decisions
• Determine item lifecycles and exit strategies as well as identify items to maximize promotional and marketing strategies
• Attend all market weeks, store trips, trade shows and conferences
• Train and coach Assistant Buyers & Sr. Assistant Buyers

Core Competencies & Accomplishments:

• College degree or equivalent business experience
• Minimum 4 years merchandising experience; preferably with a large organization in a similar role
• Thorough knowledge of buying and operations gained through progressive buying experience
• Assortment optimization and Business Planning
• Supplier and Price Management
• Strong Decision Making ability and Negotiation Skills
• Adaptability/Perseverance
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook required

Enjoy a rewarding career at JCPenney Corporate, where we offer a competitive benefits package, a vibrant work environment, and the opportunity to make a difference at one of America's most iconic retailers.

• Generous benefits: Medical/dental/vision insurance starting on day one, term life insurance, paid vacation/holidays, 401(k) Savings Plan with company match, and an associate discount on JCPenney merchandise.
• On-site amenities: Daycare, Grab & Go Store, Coffee Shop, the Local Kitchen, fitness center, free garage parking, golf simulator, arcade, pickleball courts, and vibrant co-working spaces, meeting rooms and wellness rooms.
• Exciting location: Our corporate office is located in the heart of Legacy West, a vibrant new development in Plano, Texas, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Opportunities for growth and development: We are committed to helping our employees grow their careers and develop their skills. We offer a variety of training and development programs, as well as opportunities for advancement.
• Collaborative and supportive culture: We believe in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We encourage teamwork and collaboration, and we are always looking for ways to support our employees' success.

About JCPenney:

JCPenney is the shopping destination for diverse, working American families. With inclusivity at its core, the Company’s product assortment meets customers’ everyday needs and helps them commemorate every special occasion with style, quality and value. JCPenney offers a broad portfolio of fashion, apparel, home, beauty and jewelry from national and private brands and provides personal services including salon, portrait and optical. The Company and its 50,000 associates worldwide serve customers where, when and how they want to shop – from jcp.com to more than 650 stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. In 2022, JCPenney celebrates 120 years as an iconic American brand by continuing its legacy of connecting with customers through shopping and community engagement. Please visit JCPenney’s Newsroom to learn more and follow JCPenney on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

For more opportunities to join our team please visit our careers page.

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