Assistant Buyer

Company Overview:
Farmer John's is a family-owned, high-end garden center, landscape design business, and boutique located in Farmington Hills. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and enjoyable work environment while delivering exceptional products and services to our customers.

Job Purpose:
The Assistant Buyer supports the purchasing team in product selection, inventory management, vendor relations, and administrative tasks. This role ensures smooth operations and high-quality customer service while contributing to the overall success of the company.

Key Responsibilities

Buying Support

• Assist the buying team in researching trends and selecting products that align with company goals and customer preferences.

• Work with vendors to obtain quotes, samples, and product details.

• Track and follow up on purchase orders to ensure timely delivery.

• Monitor inventory levels to prevent overstock or shortages.

• Communicate with vendors regarding returns, discrepancies, or other issues.

• Maintain accurate product data, including pricing, descriptions, and specifications.

• Coordinate rebates and promotions with vendors and store teams.

Operational Support

• Organize and merchandise products on the sales floor to enhance visual appeal.

• Collaborate with teams to ensure smooth transitions for seasonal or promotional items.

• Support pricing and tagging of new merchandise.

• Maintain clean and organized inventory storage areas.

Administrative Tasks

• Maintain accurate records of purchases, invoices, and vendor communication.

• Prepare and distribute reports on sales trends, inventory levels, and vendor performance.

• Perform data entry and update product and vendor information in software systems.

• Schedule vendor meetings and assist with presentations as needed.

• Manage inventory for brochures, pricing labels, and tags.

• Perform inventory adjustments, scanning, and receiver duties as required.

• Coordinate company newsletters and price promotions to align with current sales.

• Generate weekly and monthly sales reports.

Customer Service

• Assist customers with product knowledge and recommendations when needed.

• Act as a liaison between the buying team and store staff to ensure alignment on promotions and new arrivals.

Skills and Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Practical experience and knowledge in plant identification, gardening, and gardening supplies.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; a degree in Business, Retail, or a related field is a plus.

• Previous experience in retail buying, inventory management, or administrative support preferred.

Key Skills:

• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in data entry.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook), Google Docs, and point-of-sale systems.

• Analytical skills to evaluate sales data and identify trends.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Ability to occasionally lift and move items weighing up to 50 lbs.

Personal Qualities:

• Resourceful, self-motivated, and capable of working independently or collaboratively.

• Flexible and adaptable to a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.

• Passionate about plants, gardening, and home décor (preferred).

Work Context:

• Regular interaction with vendors, store teams, and management.

• Potential travel to vendor sites, trade shows, or other business events.

• Occasional extended hours during peak seasons or promotional events.

Why Join Farmer John’s?

At Farmer John’s, you’ll be part of a vibrant, community-focused team that values creativity, collaboration, and growth. This role offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills in retail and procurement while contributing to the success of a beloved local business.