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.

• 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 employees 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