As a Merchandise Assistant (MA), you will support the daily operational functions within your designated buying area; support the buying team in managing the overall merchandise flow. You will also learn to develop key cross functional relationships with both the market and internal partners: distribution center, vendors/agents and e-commerce team. The MA is also responsible for partnering with the Assistant Buyer on all necessary tasks.

Samples

Open all packages and distribute to the appropriate Assistant Buyer for review

Organize all sample areas (our area, desk, shelves, etc.)

Manage and set up samples for all meetings

Call in any missing samples from vendors or request from production via sample log

Organize and file all vendor catalogs.

Work with Assistant Buyer to request appropriate number of samples for web turnover, catalog shoots, press previews, and other meetings

Mail/Email

Check all mailboxes and distribute mail twice daily

Open all mail and distribute to the appropriate Assistant Buyer for review

Answer all emails promptly and in an organized fashion

Visual Merchandising

Take digital photos of all items

Manage and maintain picture packs

Complete powerpoints of product assortment inclusive of style info, margin and images for finalization meetings

Web Turnover

Enter all product information for each item being bought for upcoming seasons into MTS system

Once final samples are received, label all samples and pass them to the Product Coordinator on weekly basis

Vendor Communication

Set up new vendors as needed

Answer various inquiries in a timely manner, especially shipping related

Bubble up to assistant buyer and buyer any major issues/concerns

Weekly, reach out to vendors to ensure that they are still on track for delivery of product according to the PO handover date

Order Entry/ PO Maintenance

Write purchase orders when requested by Buyer and denoted in assortment sheet in our order entry system

Ensure accuracy of all new and replenishment orders, confirming duty rates, freight rates, costing and time-line of shipment

Complete all customs line reviews, once per month, or as needed

Follow up with vendor to ensure they can meet the order requirements as necessary

React to vendor or buyer needs by altering purchase orders as needed, as well as updating style information inclusive of costing, retail price changes and sku changes

Assortment Sheet Maintenance

Update the assortment sheet for all orders placed, as well as price changes, sku changes, etc

Take ownership of the accuracy of receipts in each month, as well as the costing information

Calendar

Review the Buyers calendar weekly and prepare for upcoming meetings

Monitor excel home calendar and maintain awareness of all upcoming deadlines

Market

Visit local stores to inspect execution and get a sense of general wear/tear to home product.

Read magazines and bring tear sheets / ideas to the table for new merchandise and trends

#Terrain #LI-ME1

Must exhibit strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work in a fast paced work environment.

An understanding of the customer's wants and needs and the ability to identify the appropriate product/trend that will appeal to the customer and meet their expectations.

Ability to prioritize projects and handle multiple tasks.

Must demonstrate creative thinking.

Must be proactive, independent and detail oriented

1-2 Years retail experience or internship.

Bachelors Degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field.

Minimal travel required.

URBN offers comprehensive Perks & Benefits to employees. Availability and eligibility to specific benefits may be subject to your location and employment status. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, PTO, generous employee discounts, retirement savings and much more! For additional information visit www.urbn.com/work-with-us/benefits

Urban Outfitters, Inc. celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression), religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, citizenship, service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic as established by law. We believe strongly in fostering a safe, fair and respectful work environment. To ensure compliance with our non-discrimination and anti-harassment policies, we offer anti-harassment training to managers and employees.