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VD
Variety Distributors Inc.
Merchandise Buyer
Career Insights for Merchandiser (General)
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Scorecard
Based on Iowa data
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What they do
A Merchandiser assists with marketing or promoting merchandise in a retail store. Advises on trends and styles; designs and creates merchandise displays in a store, to generate or improve customer sales. Works with sales associates, merchandise managers and product vendors. Monitors customer preferences and sales data.
$35,345 / year median in Iowa
+4% projected growth
Job Description
Job Overview We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Merchandise Buyer to join our team and drive the success of our product offerings. In this role, you will be responsible for selecting, purchasing, and managing inventory to ensure our merchandise aligns with market trends and customer preferences. Your expertise in supply chain management, vendor relationships, and procurement systems will be essential to optimize inventory levels, negotiate favorable terms, and support overall business growth. This position offers an exciting opportunity to influence product assortment strategies while working in a fast-paced, innovative environment committed to excellence. Responsibilities Develop and execute sourcing strategies by analyzing market trends, sales data, and customer preferences to select the best merchandise for our stores or online platforms. Manage vendor relationships through direct negotiation, communication, and contract management to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms. Conduct Excel data analysis to monitor sales performance, forecast demand, and optimize inventory levels using spreadsheets and other analytical tools. Maintain comprehensive records of purchase orders, contracts, pricing agreements, and vendor communications to ensure transparency and compliance. Experience Proven experience in procurement or buying roles within retail environments with a strong understanding of supply chain management principles. Demonstrated ability in vendor negotiation, relationship management, and contract development to maximize value for the organization. Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel data analysis and spreadsheet management for forecasting and inventory optimization. Ability to communicate effectively with vendors across different regions while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Join us as a Merchandise Buyer if you are passionate about sourcing innovative products, building strong vendor partnerships, and making impactful decisions that drive business success!