Category Analyst - Associate Buyer Apparel

Job Overview

Category Analyst - Associate Buyer Apparel

Employment Type: Full Time

Supervisor: Category Manager

Location: Store Support Center

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Job Description

Responsible for supporting the overall category strategy by analyzing current performance and past trends, managing product assortments, monitoring in stock within a specific product category, under the guidance of a Category Manager. Key duties include data analysis, inventory management, promotional forecasting, collaborating with cross-functional teams and replenishing inventory. Category Analyst can typically progress to a full Category Manager role with increased responsibility for managing larger categories, developing more complex strategies, and overseeing a team.

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Qualifications

• College degree preferred, High School Diploma or GED required
• 1-2 Years experience in purchasing and data analysis 

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Key Responsibilities

• Ordering & Allocations
• Evaluate each vendor assigned to the Category Manager to determine optimal order frequency, order minimums, pack sizes, shipment method etc. Responsible for daily execution of orders and allocations based on system recommendations. 
• Product assortment planning:
• Manage inventory turn with a focus on eliminating over stocks, duplication and dead inventory within the product mix, including new product introductions and product rationalization. Work closely with the Category Manager to determine a go forward plan on unproductive inventory. 
• Supplier management:
• Ensure product data is accurate and updated within the system including but not limited to product specifications, descriptions and vendor program elements etc. 
• Sales forecasting:
• Analyze sales data to forecast demand and optimize inventory levels.  
• Promotional sales evaluation:
• Analyze the outcome of previously advertised items to assess sales, margin and unit performance. Manage suggestions to the buyer for future promotions. 
• Promotional planning:
• Execute promotional purchases under the guidance of the Category Manager to drive sales and customer engagement. 
• Reporting and analysis:
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) like sales, profit margins, and inventory turn to identify areas for improvement. Monitor vendors lead times and fulfillment to ensure we remain in stock on all products. 
• Cross-functional collaboration:
• Work with marketing, store planning, DC and operations teams to implement category strategies and improve in-stock at store level. 
• Communication
• Responsible for all correspondence between stores and DC pertaining to the category.
• Seasonal Associate Category Managers
• Responsible for coordinating seasonal buys & sell through targets for the assigned category. Also responsible for communicating those targets for needed action at store level.  

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Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills 
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software 
• Understanding of retail operations and merchandising principles 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

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Physical Demands

Frequent physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, dexterity, and light grasping. Occasional physical demands include lifting up to 25 lbs., bending, stooping, reaching, kneeling, squatting, climbing stairs and firmly grasping. The employee is required to accept incoming calls and must be able to hear and speak. Specific vision abilities required by this job include vision adequate for the incumbent to perform the responsibilities and functions of the job efficiently. The associate must have the manual dexterity to manually operate and use a computer and other basic office equipment.

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Work Environment and Working Conditions

This position will be performed inside a climate-controlled office facility. The noise level is low to medium and typical of an office environment. Potential hazards include electrical hazards. Atmospheric conditions are typical of an office environment and may include exposure to odors and dust.  

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Benefits

Part-Time and Full-Time Eligible:

• Competitive match on 401K
• PTO
• Holidays
• Birthday-off with pay
• Associate discount and many other benefits

Full-Time Also Eligible:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance 
• Flexible spending accounts
• Short-term and long-term disability

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Company Culture and Values

At Theisen's, our company culture is built on a foundation of respect, collaboration, and service to our communities. We believe in putting Customer First, working together as One Connected Team, and always finding ways to Give Back. These three pillars guide how we approach our work and interact with each other every day.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every associate is valued and encouraged to grow. At Theisen's, we strive to make a positive impact on our customers, our communities, and each other, creating a workplace where hard work, dedication, and innovation are celebrated.

Theisen’s is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any associate or applicant for employment based on race, color, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or any other federal, state, or local protected class.