Assistant Buyer, Footwear

Assistant Buyer, Footwear

We believe Running Changes Everything. If you believe that, too, we want to talk. With more than 280 stores and a robust e-commerce site, Fleet Feet is the largest running retailer in the country. Catering to more than runners, we pride ourselves on having an inclusive environment! We believe it's a privilege to serve and to deliver unmatched service and support when outfitting every customer. We run together to solve problems, reach goals, encourage others and champion our brand.

The Assistant Buyer, Footwear supports the execution of Fleet Feet's footwear merchandising strategy across all channels. This role assists in building seasonal assortments, preparing reporting and analysis, and coordinating with cross-functional partners to ensure product is set up, ordered, and positioned to meet sales, margin, and inventory goals.

This is a hybrid position based in Carrboro, NC, with an expectation of working in the office three days per week. Candidates must currently live within commuting distance or be willing to relocate to the area.

Responsibilities:

• Assortment & Strategy Support
• Cross-Channel Merchandising & Ecommerce
• Reporting & Business Analysis
• Preseason Buy & Order Book Support
• Store & Franchise Support
• Tools, Systems & Process Improvement
• Collaboration & Team Support
• Measures of Success (Supported KPIs)

Qualifications:

• 13 years of merchandising, buying, planning, or retail experience preferred; internship or store experience in footwear or sporting goods a plus.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets and comfort working with reports and large data sets.
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills; able to manage multiple tasks and seasonal calendars.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills; comfortable collaborating with cross-functional partners and vendors.
• Passion for the Fleet Feet brand, running, fitness, and/or active lifestyles is strongly preferred.

Competencies:

• Ownership & Follow-Through: Takes responsibility for assigned tasks and delivers against deadlines.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with teammates across departments and with vendor partners.
• Curiosity & Learning: Proactively seeks to understand the business, category trends, and the "why" behind results.
• Customer & Operator Focus: Considers both the end consumer and store operators when supporting assortment and merchandising decisions.

Benefits:

• Robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, EAP, and more
• 401(k) with 4% Company Match: Available to employees aged 21+ at company-owned stores.
• Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy savings on industry-leading products and specialized training programs.
• Professional Development: Grow your career through mentorship opportunities, employee resource groups, and ongoing learning sessions designed to help you reach your full potential.
• Community Engagement: Get involved in local outreach and service initiatives that align with our purpose-driven mission.
• Inspiring Team Culture: Join supportive, passionate teammates who live the mission every day.

Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodations:

We are an equal opportunity employer and believe having teams in which everyone brings their whole self to Fleet Feet is key to our success. We encourage people of all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. Our dedication to inclusion is reflected in our hiring practices, workplace culture, and community engagement.

Fleet Feet utilizes E-Verify in all corporate and company-operated stores as part of the hiring process.

Full-Time