Associate, Merchant

Associate Merchant , Category: (dresses & jumpsuits/rompers)

Location: USA- Jacksonville, FL

About VENUS

VENUS® is a leader in stylish, on-trend designs in women’s clothing, swimwear and lingerie. Founded in 1982, the Florida-based brand pioneered swim separates and continues to drive newness in fit, fabric and design across all categories. Made for everybody, the collection is offered in a full range of sizes from 2-24. VENUS® is committed to inclusivity, as well as socially- and environmentally-responsible business practices that positively impact both people and the planet.

About the Position

The Associate Merchant is responsible for development a product assortment strategy in partnership with the Merchant/Senior Merchant that supports the brand objectives, exceeds customer expectations, and delivers on sales & profit targets. The Associate Merchant works in collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver/exceed department & financial goals for the division & company.

Job Duties

• Create and execute strategic direction for category in partnership with Merchant/Senior Merchant with a focus on building strong assortment architecture that supports total company strategies and growth plan
• Perform competitive analysis to identify trends and opportunities and be able to be able to interpret this information to maximize Venus’ appeal to the marketplace
• Act as cross departmental liaison, creating a consistent flow of communication throughout the organization
• Support Assistant Merchant with system/tool maintenance ensuring accuracy of product details
• Partner with Merchant/Senior Merchant, Design and PD/Sourcing on a seasonal basis to deliver assortment that supports category strategy & meets margin targets
• Partner with Planning to determine seasonal buys and manage flow of inventory
• Possesses in depth knowledge of target customer to ensure product & assortment deliver exceptional customer experience
• Attend fittings and provide recommendations to align with merchandising needs
• Analyze business on regular basis identifying opportunities & risks to pursue and formulating action plan to address
• Assist in key meeting preparation with samples, deck preparation, analysis and ad hoc requests
• Develop and fosters a teamwork atmosphere and encourage positive morale
• Leads, mentors and develops direct reports

Qualifications

• 3 – 5 years of experience in merchandising for vertical retailer, apparel experience preferred
• Excellent organizational and planning skills
• Strong interpersonal skills; excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to multi-task, and delegate duties
• Must possess strong active listening and problem-solving skills.
• Must be able to break complex problems down, communicate findings and resolve or recommend a solution
• Ability to read and interpret reports concerning margins, mark-up, sales data, and other merchant-based data, drawing valid conclusions
• Have an eye for fashion and interpret trend information as it pertains to the Venus Brand.
• Computer literacy and the ability to utilize business programs as needed to conduct business. Includes but not limited to PowerPoint, Excel, Digi, Qlik, etc.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree