Buyer, Apparel

Work with planner to develop and attain budgeted sales, gross margin and market share for assigned categories. Locate and select assortment for the enterprise and manage vendor relationships to maximize sales/margin and minimize costs. Demonstrate Kroger core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion and safety RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise and coach direct reports in the performance of their duties; complete performance reviews and provide feedback to direct reports

• Develop and communicate corporate strategic category plans with a focus on division's needs

• Maintain an awareness of current sales trends and assess impact on business needs

• Create business plan for assigned categories

• Create sales plan, display plans and ad plans customized for each division

• Maintain division-specific Enterprise Sales Planning (ESP) tools and procedures

• Review sales, profit and promotional performance by division

• Source and select new products

• Implement corporate pricing strategy; maintain competitiveness while maximizing sales and profit potential

• Manage vendor relationships for the enterprise, including negotiating vendor allowances, payment terms, in-stocks and orders

• Develop enterprise-specific selling programs for categories

• Partner with planner on financial planning, vendor financial plans and strategies

• Participate in floor planning and plan-o-gram processes

• Maintain a comprehensive awareness of industry trends, the competitive landscape across the enterprise and regional needs

• Lead/participate in store tours

• Develop advertising campaigns; select merchandise to advertise

• Work with the product development team to develop, buy and market private label products across the enterprise

• Research and assist with resolving store/division inquiries

• Travel for vendor visits, store tours and/or category markets

• Must be able to perform the essential job functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation

QUALIFICATIONS Minimum

Bachelors Degree business or related field plus two years combined assistant buyer and assistant planner experience or a combination of relevant education and experience

Accuracy/attention to detail

High level of complexity in in item difficulty, promo intensity, regionality, category innovation, vendor difficulty, sales and EBIT, and growth goals (Level 11)

Moderate level of complexity in item difficulty, promo intensity, regionality, category innovation, vendor difficulty, sales and EBIT, and growth goals (Level 10

Low level of complexity in in item difficulty, promo intensity, regionality, category innovation, vendor difficulty, sales and EBIT, and growth goals (Level 9)

Highly motivated and selfdirected

Function in a fastpaced, retail/office environment

Proficient with Microsoft Office

Familiarity with retail industry/technical terms and processes

Ability to organize/prioritize tasks/projects

Desired

Familiarity with commodity markets

Experience directing/participating on project teams