Retail Buyer

Disclaimer: This position is directly managed by our internal team and we are not working with external recruiting agencies. Submissions from external agencies will not be considered.

About Us

Our management and operating team has over 65 years of continuous experience in the airport concessions industry dating back to 1959, including a wide range of airport concessions from travel convenience and gift stores to specialty retail and bookstore concepts. No matter the concept, our driving principle is to be the absolute best at what we do. Each and every one of our principals and executives spends the time necessary to provide expert, top-level attention to each of our store operations and we believe this makes a difference. Operating in 5 U.S. Airports, NewsLink has a dedicated team of more than 50 employees working in our travel conveniences, retail stores, restaurants, cafes, warehouse and distribution center, and corporate offices.

Position Summary

We are currently seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Junior Retail Merchandise Buyer. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for growth within our organization. The Retail Merchandise Buyer will play a key role in overseeing multiple categories within our stores.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with senior buyers and management to develop and execute strategic merchandise plans that align with company objectives and customer preferences.
• Source and evaluate potential vendors and products, negotiating favorable terms and pricing agreements.
• Analyze sales trends, market data, and customer feedback to identify opportunities for product assortment enhancements and optimization.
• Create and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring timely deliveries and quality standards are met.
• Work with planograms and execute visual merchandising strategies to optimize product presentation and enhance the customer experience.
• Monitor inventory levels and sales performance, making data-driven decisions to maximize profitability and minimize excess stock.
• Conduct regular store visits and competitor analysis to stay informed about market trends and identify areas for improvement.
• Assist in the development of promotional strategies and marketing initiatives to drive sales and increase brand visibility.
• Prepare and present reports, including sales forecasts, performance metrics, and category analyses, to senior management.
• Undertake various ad-hoc tasks as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in retail buying, merchandising, or a similar role.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other analytical tools.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for fashion and a keen eye for product selection and trends.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for vendor meetings, trade shows, and store visits.
• Previous experience as a retail buyer, particularly for a boutique gift shop, is desirable.