The Assistant Merchandiser is responsible for supporting the Retail Merchandising team with all aspects of store merchandising in support of company mission and goals. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to: managing the merchandise reorder process; creating new item files; initiating purchase order entry and monitoring stock levels; coordinating product placement in store; collaborating with E-Commerce and Merchandising teams on Online product assortment. Other duties may include:  assisting with sales and merchandise analysis, monitoring marketplace trends, and traveling to various buying shows.  In addition, the Assistant Merchandiser will provide general assistance and support to leadership, the department, and the company.

Essential Job Duties

1. Works with Retail Merchandiser to order merchandise for their area(s) of responsibility.
2. Creates and maintains item files (SKU's) for all products.
3. Coordinates the reorder process to ensure the consistent flow of product; assists with managing open-to-buy (OTB) by monitoring stock levels.
4. Supports Retail Merchandiser with vendor setup and compliance, along with vendor updates.
5. Purchase order entry and maintenance; writing the POs, changes, and cancellations.
6. Negotiates with vendors on pricing as it relates to late delivery, over-shipments, style substitutions, and invoice matching.
7. Analyzes business data on a weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual basis.
8. Assists during market with product selection and assortment.
9. Works with Retail Merchandiser to approve and process all price changes.
10. Coordinates with Inventory Control on all returns (RTV’s) and credits.
11. Communicates with Retail Fulfillment Center on any inbound/outbound retail shipments and /or any vendor compliance issues.
12. Works with visual team to ensure sales floor placement optimization.
13. Works cross-functionally with Store Operations, E-commerce, Visual and Inventory Control to ensure they have the tools to understand and support the assortment.
 

Additional Responsibilities

1. Manages special orders for internal and external guests.
2. Partners with E-commerce merchandising and photo teams to ensure product accuracy.
3. Manages the maintenance of the digital database of all artwork.
4. Shops the marketplace to identify product opportunities, pricing strategies, trends, and 
offerings.
5. Partners with merchandising team to ensure balanced assortment and shares product
feedback.

Qualifications

1. Two- or four-year degree preferred. Additional training or education helpful. 
2. At least three (3) years of related retail experience. Equivalent combination of education/experience considered. Ideal candidate will have retail buying experience in an upscale setting.
3. Ability to analyze technical data in suppliers’ proposals; negotiation and mathematical skills; knowledge of supply-chain management; and the ability to perform financial analyses, as well as strong negotiation skills.
4. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; ability to learn Biltmore systems, protocols, and product/inventory lines.
5. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills; conveys information effectively at all levels; strong negotiation skills; builds positive relationships across the company. 
6. Resourceful; has good judgment, self-confidence; strong organizational and time management skills; keen attention to detail; able to take risks and make quick decisions.
7. Proactive; anticipates, addresses, and troubleshoots issues.
8. Professional; high ethical standards; reflects company values. 

Physical Requirments

1. Some travel required; must have a valid driver's license.
2. Required to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
3. Good stamina and physical condition to work at trade shows is essential.
4. May be required to access historic buildings/locations requiring climbing of stairs.
5. Primarily working indoors; may occasionally work outside and/or in locations with fluctuations in temperature and conditions.