Buyer In-Training

Buyer In Training Program

The Buyer in Training program is a 12–18-month development pathway designed to prepare high-potential talent for a future role in merchandising. This role builds deep expertise in the core competencies of successful buying, including:

• Advanced category management
• Strategic assortment planning
• Vendor partnership development
• Margin optimization strategies
• Cross-functional collaboration with marketing and operations
• Negotiation skill development

Key responsibilities include:

Vendor & Cross-Functional Relationships

• Develop strong, effective vendor partnerships
• Collaborate with suppliers on product development and with the Global Sourcing team on private brand and product label development
• Manage vendor allowances, marketing programs, and promotional strategies
• Negotiate pricing, vendor terms, opportunity buys, and free goods
• Serve as the main point of contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Partner with Logistics and DC teams to optimize product flow to stores
• Work closely with Replenishment and Planning teams on product flow and order management
• Visit Rural King stores to maintain open communication and understand in-store challenges

Product Management

• Monitor market trends and competitive landscape
• Manage product pricing, sales, profit margins, and turnover to meet budgeted targets
• Identify and pursue new product opportunities that align with customer needs
• Conduct 2–3 annual category line reviews and support other category duties as assigned
• Develop seasonal merchandise assortments, pricing, and merchandising plans
• Attend product shows and visit suppliers as relevant to assigned categories

Planning & Analysis

• Place, track, and ensure timely delivery of all new store orders
• Collaborate with Inventory Planners to analyze and improve product performance
• Review recommendations and determine appropriate actions on inventory strategies
• Monitor seasonal product performance and react accordingly
• Partner with Marketing on advertising plans, promotions, and ad flyers
• Maintain current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends
• Generate and interpret reports to support data-driven decisions
• Manage assortment planning and product lifecycle processes
• Help create financial plans (Open-to-Buy) aligned with company goals
• Work with Replenishment Analysts to optimize in-stock levels on core items
• Identify and address poor-performing items and reduce inventory liabilities
• Collaborate on preseason flow plans and inventory projections

Advertising & Promotion

• Develop and submit promotional plans that drive sales and store traffic
• Ensure 98.5% in-stock accuracy for print advertising items
• Collaborate with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies—a key focus area

Store Planning

• Provide timely direction on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
• Ensure planograms are accurate, timely, and appropriate to store volume and space

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead teams to drive sales, manage inventory, and meet financial goals
• Communicate a clear strategic vision, including visual merchandising strategies
• Inspire and mentor team members to grow personally and professionally
• Lead impactful projects that support Rural King's success and growth
• Influence the strategic direction of the department
• Exhibit leadership principles taught in Rural King's Thrive Leadership Program
• Exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Actively participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Provide friendly, professional support to internal and external partners
• Uphold Rural King's core values:
• People First
• Integrity
• Attitude
• Initiative
• Teamwork
• Accountability
• Continuous Improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Successfully transition into a Buyer role within 18 months

Supervisory Responsibilities

No

Essential Qualities for Success

• 2–3 years of experience in-store retail, merchandising, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong potential for growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and business acumen
• Proven ability to solve complex problems and make data-driven decisions
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel skills preferred
• Ability to quickly learn and use Oracle systems
• Excellent organization and attention to detail
• Skilled in negotiation, conflict resolution, and cross-functional collaboration
• Strong understanding of retail operations and best practices
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, discretion, and alignment with company values

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain seated or stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds periodically
• Ability to move throughout and access all areas of company facilities
• Effective verbal communication in person and through digital devices
• Close visual focus required for computer-based tasks

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

The pay range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs.