Lead Buyer

Lead Buyer

Full Time Management Inver Grove Heights, MN, US

4 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $80,000.00 To $90,000.00 Annually

Gertens is one of the largest family‑owned garden centers in the nation, proudly serving Minnesota for generations. Known for exceptional quality, expert service, and an unmatched commitment to our customers, we offer a broad range of lawn, garden, home, and seasonal products—all backed by the strength of our family‑grown values. As we continue to grow, we’re dedicated to investing in our people, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities for long‑term career development.

We’re seeking an experienced Lead Buyer to support our continued growth by guiding purchasing strategy, strengthening vendor partnerships, and developing a high‑performing buying team. In this role, you will oversee a large and diverse product base, making strategic decisions that directly impact customer experience, inventory performance, and company financial goals.

• Lead and manage the purchasing process for assigned categories, ensuring alignment with company strategy and financial targets.
• Mentor and continue to develop buyers and support staff, providing leadership, training, and ongoing support for their growth.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Collaborate with merchandising, marketing, operations, and other partners to support optimal product selection and timing.
• Monitor and analyze key performance metrics—including GMROI, inventory turns, and sales trends—to inform decision‑making.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and profitability.
• Conduct quarterly reviews with all buying staff to share insights, evaluate results, and ensure alignment with departmental goals.
• Drive product assortment strategy and support Gertens’ financial success through effective inventory planning and purchasing execution.

• 5+ years of buying experience with at least 1 year of supervisory or leadership experience.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide teams and influence cross‑functional partners.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and relationship‑building skills.
• Strong analytical capabilities with experience in metrics such as GMROI, turns, and forecasting.
• Proficiency in purchasing systems and Microsoft Office Suite;
  Epicor experience preferred but not required.
• Strategic thinker with excellent organizational skills and keen attention to detail.

• Competitive wages
• Day, evening, and weekend schedules
• Tuition Assistance for eligible employees
• Health and Welfare insurances
• 401k savings with company match
• Employee referral bonus
• Internship program

If you’re a strategic, relationship‑driven buyer who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys leading teams while managing a large product assortment, we invite you to apply and help shape the next chapter of Gertens’ success.

E-Verify

Gertens participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program in all facilities located in the United States. The E-Verify program is an internet‑based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Gertens Family of Businesses is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.