Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer

About the Job

Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer

University of Minnesota Bookstores

Description of Position

The Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer for the University of Minnesota Bookstores is responsible for supporting merchandise buying of assigned product categories under the guidance of senior procurement staff. This position encompasses work as a cross functional team member within an assigned department or departments within the University of Minnesota Bookstore ensuring excellent customer service and compliance in all activities. This full-time position reports to a senior buyer of the assigned area of responsibility.

Responsibilities

60% - Purchasing

● Buying responsibilities include sourcing product for resale, assist in negotiating standard terms with competing vendors including price, delivery, advertising allowance, returns allowance, payment terms and others; developing and maintaining plan-o-grams for the stores and managing the flow of product to just-in-time principles; effectively displaying, merchandising and promoting the businesses to maximize sales and margin and controlling inventory and markdowns.

● Assist in acquisition and management of assigned product categories.

● Implement sales and marketing strategies for the assigned lines of business.

● Assist in maintaining budget goals pertaining to inventory levels, sales projections, and gross margin profit set forth for the assigned department.

● Verify availability of materials where available, document all pertinent information and enter information into the appropriate applications.

● Solicit and obtain information from other University of Minnesota departmental faculty/staff as assigned.

● Plan purchasing efforts in a way to meet demand yet keep inventory levels at industry and store standards.

30% - Customer Service

● Assist with support, coordination and development of digital material delivery programs where applicable.

● Maintain accurate records and files related to the area of responsibility.

● Advise customers/clients regarding product alternatives.

● Keep floor staff appraised of on-order status and expected delivery dates.

● Manager on duty for Bookstores on assigned nights and weekends.

10% - Other

● Duties as assigned by supervisor

Essential Functions of the Position

● Implement marketing & merchandising plans to support the sales goal for the all assigned product categories.

● Assist in all aspects of the purchasing process including sourcing of the product, negotiating terms, managing flow of product and effective displays under the supervision of a senior buyer.

● Forecast and maintains ideal inventory levels based on demands /or sales trend

● Monitor market trends; obtain comparative data regarding price, quality, quantity, availability and delivery. Keep current on new product developments. Attend trade shows as needed.

● Work with University departments to create a welcoming environment, which supports learning, research and outreach.

● Confer with the supervisor on appropriate University purchasing policies , procedures , and methodologies.

Work Environment

Work is performed mainly in a retail store and office setting.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

● A bachelor's degree in related fields and two (2) years of professional level purchasing experience; or a combination of related education and work experience to equal six (6) years. Position involves comparing, verifying and reconciling data to help the department achieve overall objectives.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

● Ability to work independently and solve a range of straightforward problems.

● Skill in reading and interpreting purchase requests and other written material.

● Effective use of computer hardware and associated software and maintenance of appropriate systems, records and files.

● Demonstrated ability to follow strategic direction and apply analytical thinking

● Administrative and leadership skills.

● Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $29.80-$38.47/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type:
Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

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