Associate Buyer

Overall Job Summary This position is responsible for supporting the buyer in all aspects of developing, communicating and executing the strategic business plans. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Min 5%) Assist in the achievement of budgeted financial metrics, such as Sales, GM$, GM%, Turn, and Vendor Support/Rebate dollars. Work with the Buyer to manage, execute and communicate the line review process. Support the Buyer with product analysis and item selections for all events, promotions, power panels, endcaps, clip strips, and two-tier baskets—fully responsible for meeting deadlines, communication and executing the above listed responsibilities. Maintain the financials and day‑to‑day management of 3 to 6 categories or more. Communicate, execute and monitor Sales‑Driving Initiative review detail. Provide detail of merchandise strategy to Planner for building assortment plans for new planograms. Hit milestone dates and communicate on a timely basis with partners in Merchandise Analysis, Inventory Management, Logistics, Merchandise Administration, Merchandise Presentation, Sourcing/Product development, Pricing and Store Operations. Execute details of the advertising process which includes researching previous ad sales, working with the planner to develop forecasts, conveying inventory support needs to the inventory analyst, entering items into the Promotions Workbench, proofing all print advertising, and serving as the primary point of contact for the advertising and marketing departments related to the production details of our advertising and marketing. Develop and maintain a positive, productive day‑to‑day working relationship with assigned members of the Merchandise Planning, Inventory Management, Pricing, Marketing, Operations (stores) and Merchandise Presentation Teams. Serves as primary point of contact for vendor and product specific issue resolution. Negotiate costs, scanbacks, and buybacks with vendors working in conjunction with the buyer. Serve as point of contact for the vendor community (primary contact is Buyer). Execute the New Item Test Program. Work in conjunction with the buyer to select items to test. Negotiate buybacks and markdown dollars in association with the test program. Handle/oversee all interaction and communication with the Merchandise Administration Team to include, but not limited to, new vendor setup, new SKU setup, VRM management, marketing, support funds, volume rebates, and markdown dollars. Serve as the primary owner of the Bluebook Product Catalog process and product related store guides. Conduct Tractor Supply Company (TSC) store tours and off‑site training, work with transportation to insure goods are packaged and delivered to stores and collaborate with Human Resources Store Operations and the Vendor Community in the development of Product Knowledge Training for Team Members. Required Qualifications Experience: 2‑4 years retail experience in store operations, merchandising or Inventory Management; Education: Knowledge ordinarily acquired through attainment of a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail, or other related field from an accredited college or university. Any suitable combination of education and experience will be considered. Preferred Knowledge, Skills Or Abilities Analytical and technical skills, including Excel and Business Objects experience. Displays strong and demonstrated leadership, communication, organizational, and problem‑solving capabilities. Ability and proficiency in MS Windows and Office products. Ability to manipulate data to drive and expedite project completion. Ability to travel occasionally. Working Conditions Normal office working conditions Physical Requirements Sitting Standing (not walking) WalkingKneeling/Stooping/Bending Lifting up to 50 pounds Driving a vehicle #J-18808-Ljbffr