What are the responsibilities and job description for the Retail Buyer/Category Manager - Opry Entertainment Group position at Opry Entertainment Group & Ryman Hospitality...?
The Category Brand Manager will maximize sales and profitability of assigned categories by developing strategies and tactics that contribute to category growth. This position will analyze and plan assigned merchandise categories and ensure that merchandise meets consumer expectations considering brand positioning, design, and pricing.
- Accountable for achieving or exceeding sales/profit budgets of assigned categories or brands.
- Collaborate with Product Development in the selection, pricing, and purchasing of merchandise for a profitable assortment for assigned categories, including operational commodity items.
- Partner with Senior Manager Analytics to maintain in-stock position for all bestselling inventory items through planning and forecasting.
- Develop assortment plan/roadmap for item transition for assigned categories.
- Develop internal reports and vendor scorecard reports to analyze business and maximize sales and profits.
- Manage file maintenance to support the procurement cycle, including vendor setup, SKU setup, and product information. Resolve any order issues and arrange for timely returns and/or markdown strategies.
- Foster partnerships with vendors and internal product development team to negotiate the best price to maximize sales and profitability, markdown allowance, terms, and shipping cost to improve cost of goods sold.
- Review product assortments by store/brand location to maximize floor space, market demand, and sales opportunity.
- Assist with the purchasing of commodity or special items.
- Assist with training and product knowledge of retail store employees.
- Assist Product Development Director in marketing promotions and recaps.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Education
- College degree in related field preferred or equivalent experience required
Experience
- 3 years previous category management/ retail buying experience required
- Gift shop and multiple category purchasing (apparel, gift, music, tabletop, etc.) preferred
- Strong computer skills including experience with retail purchasing systems, spreadsheet and database software
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
- Strong analytical skills
- Ability to foster vendor partnerships
- Ability to multi-task and travel as needed to trade shows
