Joblist Logo
Post a JobLog In
Joblist Logo
Find Jobs
Log InSign Up
Post a Job
Home>Job Descriptions>Buyer Job Description

Buyer Job Description

What Does a Buyer Do?

A buyer is a professional responsible for selecting and purchasing items such as raw materials, equipment, and services for their organization. They must analyze data, such as market trends and pricing, and make decisions on which items to purchase, negotiate prices, and track orders to ensure timely delivery.

Buyer Job Description Example

Austin Express Outfitters, a thriving retail store in Austin, is seeking a motivated and experienced individual to join our team as a Buyer. As a Buyer, you will play a vital role in selecting and purchasing merchandise that aligns with our customers' preferences and market trends. If you have a keen eye for fashion, excellent negotiation skills, and a passion for delivering a curated shopping experience, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conduct market research to identify current fashion trends, consumer preferences, and competitor offerings
  • Develop and execute merchandise buying strategies to optimize sales, profitability, and inventory turnover
  • Identify and source new suppliers, negotiate contracts, and maintain positive relationships with vendors
  • Analyze sales data, customer feedback, and industry reports to make informed buying decisions
  • Collaborate with the merchandising team to plan and coordinate product assortment and seasonal launches
  • Monitor inventory levels, ensure timely replenishment, and implement markdowns or promotions as needed
  • Stay updated on industry developments, fashion forecasts, and emerging brands to enhance the store's merchandise selection
  • Manage the product ordering process, including placing purchase orders, tracking shipments, and resolving any issues or discrepancies
  • Conduct regular store visits to assess merchandise displays, analyze sales performance, and gather customer feedback
  • Collaborate with the marketing team to align merchandise promotions with advertising campaigns and seasonal themes

Work Hours and Benefits:

This is a full-time position with a standard work schedule of Monday through Friday. However, flexibility in work hours may be required during peak seasons or to accommodate buying trips. As a Buyer at Austin Express Outfitters, you will receive a competitive salary package commensurate with experience. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, employee discounts, and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. Additionally, you will have the chance to work in a dynamic and collaborative team environment.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as a Buyer or in a similar purchasing role within the retail industry, preferably in the fashion or apparel sector
  • Strong knowledge of fashion trends, brands, and consumer preferences
  • Excellent negotiation and analytical skills, with the ability to identify profitable buying opportunities and manage vendor relationships
  • Solid understanding of retail math, inventory management, and merchandising principles
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to analyze data to make informed buying decisions
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with vendors, merchandisers, and store teams
  • Proficient in using inventory management software, Microsoft Excel, and other relevant tools
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Creative mindset and a passion for delivering a unique and compelling shopping experience to customers

Training and Education:

A bachelor's degree in business, fashion merchandising, or a related field is preferred for this position. However, equivalent work experience and a proven track record of successful buying and merchandising in the retail industry will also be considered. Additional training or certifications in buying, retail management, or fashion merchandising are desirable.

If you have a passion for fashion, a keen eye for trends, and a knack for selecting the right merchandise to delight customers, we invite you to apply for the Buyer position at Austin Express Outfitters. To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you would be an asset to our team. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our dynamic retail environment.

What to Include on a Buyer Resume or Job Posting

Common buyer responsibilities

  • Negotiating prices and terms with suppliers.
  • Developing and maintaining relationships with suppliers.
  • Monitoring market trends and researching new products.
  • Analyzing and forecasting market trends.
  • Developing and implementing purchasing strategies.
  • Ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
  • Managing inventory levels and stock control.
  • Preparing and issuing purchase orders.
  • Evaluating supplier performance and quality.
  • Maintaining accurate records of purchases and expenses.

Qualities & traits

  • Analytical Skills: Buyers need to be able to analyze data and make informed decisions about what to purchase.
  • Negotiation Skills: Buyers need to be able to negotiate competitive prices and terms with suppliers.
  • Attention to Detail: Buyers need to be able to pay attention to small details to ensure that the products they purchase meet the required specifications.
  • Communication Skills: Buyers need to be able to effectively communicate with suppliers and other stakeholders to ensure that their orders are fulfilled.
  • Market Knowledge: Buyers need to stay up to date on the latest trends in the market to ensure that they are making the best purchasing decisions.
  • Organizational Skills: Buyers need to be able to keep track of orders and inventory to ensure that the right products are available when needed.
  • Time Management Skills: Buyers need to be able to manage their time effectively to ensure that orders are placed and received in a timely manner.

What a typical day looks like for a buyer

A buyer typically starts the day by assessing what needs to be purchased, taking into account current stock levels, upcoming trends, customer demand, and supplier discounts. They will then contact their suppliers to discuss prices and generate new quotes. They will research benchmark prices and negotiate and review contracts. Additionally, they may engage in supplier management to ensure vendors are meeting performance and delivery deadlines. Throughout the day, buyers must stay abreast of the marketplace and be aware of current trends and pricing strategies. They may communicate with suppliers and customers, as well as other teams internally to ensure everyone is kept up to date.

Compatible jobs and work history

Pursuing a career as a buyer requires skills related to purchasing, managing inventories, researching suppliers, and negotiating prices. Buyers must also have strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with vendors, customers, and other stakeholders. While buyer experience is typically preferred, many of the skills needed to be successful in the role are transferable from other industries and positions.

Compatible job titles include:

  • Purchasing Agent
  • Procurement Manager
  • Supply Chain Manager
  • Category Manager
  • Inventory Control Specialist
  • Merchandise Planner
  • Commodity Manager
  • Strategic Sourcing Analyst
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Retail Manager

Similar Job Descriptions

Are you hiring? Our job description templates allow you to research, draft, and post your exciting job opportunity in minutes. Here are some jobs in the same industry as Buyer: