The Buyer contributes to rue21’s results by being responsible for product development/selection, vendor negotiations, department/category strategies, fashion trend/forecasting and key decisions to drive the business in the Merchandising Department.  Along with managing all communication of responsible categories with vendors and internal partners. This role is reporting to our Warrendale, PA office. 

• Commits to supporting rue21’s vision, mission, and values of an inclusive environment and sets an example for their team or sphere of influence.
• Coordinates requirements, specifications, timing, and distribution for merchandise selection
• Develop strategies and criteria for negotiations
• Evaluate competitive offerings to determine the overall best offer for a product/service
• Resolve quality problems with suppliers and user departments
• Lead and participate in cross-functional team meetings
• Manage and develop Assistant and/or Associate Buyers
• Develop/manage/evaluate relationships with other internal departments
• Build the Brands in all activities; inclusive of quality and timely execution
• Be customer centric, build the assortment focused around the customers point of view maintaining value and quality
• Maintain and update open-to-buy daily, weekly and monthly.
• Develop and present department/category strategies and assortments to Sr Buyer and Director/VP for alignment and sign off.

• Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business or related field
• Five+ years' experience as Buyer
• Prior managerial/supervisor experience
• Prior retail experience preferred
• Partner with planning on creation and management of OTB
• Fashion forward and not afraid to be a trend starter 
• Actively participate on Product development process  
• Drive fashion trend and evolution of assortment
• Drive e-comm assortment and sales
• Partner with vendors to negotiate on cost, merchandise quality and delivery windows. 
• Great teammate. You know how to work with and influence those around you, and you don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and help when others need it. 
• Engaging interpersonal and presentation skills. 
• Efficient organization, prioritization, and time management skills. 
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills, and the ability to draw conclusions to make recommendations.
• Ability to operate independently while establishing strong working relationships with co-workers and cross-functional teams
• Ability to work with and influence senior management 
• Ability to foster a positive and motivating work environment, encouraging feedback and innovation
• Self-motivated with critical attention to detail and deadlines
• Ability to adapt well to change in direction and priority in a fast- paced and deadline-oriented environment

*Please be aware that the Company requires all employees who are required to travel for work regularly or sporadically to be vaccinated for COVID-19.  This position will require the successful candidate to show proof that they are fully vaccinated for COVID-19.  The Company is an equal opportunity employer, and will provide reasonable accommodation to those individuals who are unable to be vaccinated consistent with federal, state, and local law.

WE OFFER

• 401k
• Competitive Benefits Package
• Over 3 Weeks PTO After 1 Year
• Casual Dress Code
• Merchandise Discount
• Great Work Culture

LI-CM