Buyer

Buyer

On-site; Kansas City

Salary: $75-130K; depending on skill set

5 days per week

*Must have Home Improvement or Lumber purchasing experience*

Relocation Assistance Available

This client, located near the Plaza, is looking for an individual to join its buying department. This individual will be responsible for the buying function of specific retail home improvement product categories for 50 retail stores.

This is a privately held, family owned and operated company with a very successful history. Established prior to 1920, the company owns and operates retail home improvement stores and other businesses throughout the USA.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 5-10 years of experience in retail buying, with a proven track record of selecting, negotiating, and procuring products that drive profitability and align with consumer demand.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, with the ability to analyze sales data, manage inventory, and develop comprehensive reports to support buying decisions.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ensuring effective collaboration with vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Work Ethic: Highly motivated and results-driven, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency, accuracy, and achieving business objectives.
• Professionalism: Maintains a positive and professional demeanor in negotiations, meetings, and day-to-day interactions.
• Integrity: Upholds the highest standards of honesty, ethical business practices, and transparency in all purchasing activities.
• Accountability: Demonstrates responsibility and reliability in managing purchasing decisions, vendor relationships, and contract negotiations.

Responsibilities:

• Vendor Relations & Product Sourcing: Develop and maintain strong relationships with merchandise vendors and suppliers to ensure optimal pricing, terms, and quality. Continuously evaluate market trends and consumer preferences to source new and innovative products that enhance the retail assortment.
• Negotiation & Contract Management: Lead contract negotiations to secure the best possible pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules, balancing cost efficiency with quality and supply chain reliability.
• Merchandise Planning & Strategy: Collaborate with internal teams to develop strategic merchandise programs tailored to the needs of retail stores. Conduct market research and competitive analysis to support product selection and pricing strategies.
• Product Knowledge & Industry Trends: Stay up to date with evolving industry trends, competitive landscapes, and consumer behaviors to make informed purchasing decisions. Monitor product performance and adjust buying strategies accordingly.
• Operational Coordination: Work closely with a designated assistant to ensure seamless execution of product purchasing, inventory management, and store support functions. Oversee compliance with procurement policies and internal procedures.
• Retail Store Support: Act as a key liaison between store managers, district managers, and owners, providing them with essential product information, promotional strategies, and inventory insights to drive sales and customer satisfaction.