WHO YOU ARE:
The International Buyer is responsible for curating and purchasing a diverse range of merchandise that aligns with market trends and consumer demand across multiple regions. You will collaborate closely with both internal and external partners to define product assortments that exceed sales targets in each market. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, a keen eye for fashion trends, and a proven track record in retail buying. This role requires an entrepreneurial mindset, practical problem-solving abilities, and efficient work methodologies. International experience is highly preferred. This is a temporary position for a mat leave replacement.
Strategic Leadership:
- Support the development and execution of a comprehensive buying strategy across multiple categories or regions, ensuring alignment with company-wide business objectives.
- Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., Marketing, Merchandising, Sales) to drive brand growth and ensure seamless execution of product strategies.
Advanced Forecasting & Analysis:
- Take ownership of the planning and budgeting timeline.
- Leverage advanced data analytics to identify sales trends, customer behaviors, and market shifts, adjusting buying strategies accordingly.
- Develop and implement strategies based on market dynamics, seasonal trends, and competitor activities.
Performance Monitoring & Optimization:
- Manage the product lifecycle from introduction to clearance, ensuring effective stock rotation and minimal excess inventory.
- Regularly review market trends, competitor offerings, and customer feedback to refine product assortment and make data-driven decisions.
- Monitor and analyze product performance across various metrics (sales, inventory turnover) and take immediate action to address underperformance.
- Lead post-purchase analysis to assess the success of product launches and promotional activities, using insights to inform future decisions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with the marketing team to develop promotional strategies, ensuring product positioning aligns with market demands.
Leadership in Supply Chain & Logistics:
- Oversee product flow, working closely with Logistics and Allocation teams to ensure timely delivery, optimized stock levels, and alignment with sales forecasts.
- Ensure smooth product transitions, managing the balance between new product introductions and stock clearance strategies.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Experience:
- Minimum 5 years as a buyer, preferably in women’s apparel.
- Strong analytical skills and experience in data-driven decision-making.
- Solid understanding of supply chain management.
- Experience managing relationships with international partners is an asset.
Key Skills & Specialized Knowledge:
- Advanced proficiency in Excel.
- Strong leadership and management skills.
- Ability to work efficiently, goal-oriented, and with a strong sense of business acumen.
Personal Attributes:
- Proven success in managing buying and merchandising financials, with the ability to drive revenue and margin.
- Strong commercial awareness with a keen eye on market trends, competition, and current/forthcoming fashion trends to ensure alignment with market demands.
- A people champion with considerable experience leading and inspiring teams and guiding them through change processes.
- Solution-oriented and flexible in a fast-paced environment, embracing change and actively seeking new opportunities within an agile work culture.
GROW WITH US!
We’re pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people – whether it’s in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.
Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team! Join our team and begin your career at one of North America’s top retail chains!
