Buyer In-Training
- Mattoon, IL
- $70,000-90,000 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Advanced category management
- Strategic assortment planning
- Vendor partnership development
- Margin optimization strategies
- Cross-functional collaboration with marketing and operations
- Negotiation skill development
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Provide timely direction on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
- Ensure planograms are accurate, timely, and appropriate to store volume and space
- 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
- 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
- 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