Position Purpose:

This position will be responsible for the selection of product from the Vince line for each retail and e-commerce location. Will identify, select, plan and manage the assortment to contribute and support the sale/merchandising strategies and company financial goals for the retail business and e-commerce website.  This position will work closely with the Vince merchandising team including the President, on selection of product for the stores.  Responsible for tailoring assortments to each market and may be tasked to purchase non-Vince accessories to supplement the apparel assortment.  This position will prepare ad-hoc analysis, run reports related to specific sales information, and perform financial and mathematical analysis that will enhance business decision-making.   Will use strong business acumen skills in retail math to interpret marketing plans and define price margins that focus on performance opportunities and Sales objectives.  In addition, this position will create a critical communication and information link between the retail group and cross-functional teams such as Sales and Marketing.  These duties include but are not limited to the following:   

Duties and Responsibilities:

·         Responsible to develop store and e commerce merchandise assortments that achieve sales and margin plans, support brand image and meet company turnover goals.

·         Insure consistent flow of inventory flow to stores and e commerce by working with  brand team to project purchase requirements by season, department, class, and style.

·         Plan and manage retail open to buy to attain inventory levels necessary to meet company sales, margin and turnover plans. Forecast sales and inventory flow on as necessary to achieve them.

·         Place orders in Epicor on an appropriate basis to support open to buy plans, and communicate retail and e commerce needs to wholesale partners.

·         Build mix-max replenishment parameters by store style and carry out allocation strategy to support key item replenishment.

·         Allocate orders on a timely basis to all doors.

·         Balance inventory in stores through flow of new assortments, inter-store transfers, RTV’s and replenishment.

·         Communicate with field management on product needs and inventory issues.

·         Initiate and control markdown and liquidation strategy during seasonal transition.

·         Assort stores and e commerce based on market profiles and seasonal needs within the scope of the brand.

·         Produce weekly reports and ad hoc analysis as needed to run the business.

·         Performs additional duties and assignments, as requested.

Knowledge and Skills:

This position requires exemplary analytical and interpersonal skills with demonstrated success in both written and verbal communication.  This position requires a detailed oriented and metrics driven individual with excellent computer skills including proficiency on specific software applications, such as Excel. Knowledge of the Epicor/NSB preferred.

Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize workload in order to meet all objectives to be accomplished in a timely manner.  This position requires incumbent to establish effective work relationships across multiple levels and functions.

Ability to work under pressure in an environment of constant shifting priorities and change.  Strong retail analytic skills.  Excellent partnering & communication skills. Requires incumbent to establish effective work relationships across multiple levels and functions. 

Ability to  balance analytical and creative abilities to positively affect the bottom-line profit of his/her area.

Ability to work under pressure in an environment of constant shifting priorities and change

·         Risk Taker - Carefully considers risk/reward, ready to try new ways of doing things to improve learning.

·         Forward Thinking/Innovative – Not satisfied with the status quo, ahead of the times, advanced views, creating something like nothing done or experienced before.

·         Demonstrated poise, tact and diplomacy (coolness and composure under strain, confidence without arrogance).

·         Persuasive - Able to motivate others through the appropriate use of interpersonal styles and communication methods to gain acceptance of a product, service, or idea.

·         Strategic – Ability to identify key issues in a situation and to think creatively and strategically in facing internal and external challenges. Build creative solutions and plans that meet objectives and maximize impact.

Education and Work Experience:

BS Degree in Business Administration or related field with a minimum of 3-6 years in wholesale or retail planning

Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

To be considered for this career opportunity at Kellwood Company, please email your resume including a cover letter communicating your interest, skills, experience and compensation history to:

Executive.Recruitment@Kellwood.com

Subject: Retail Buyer/Planner – Vince 10.30.09