"Bookstore Buyer"

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Initiate, direct and fulfill the quarterly adoption cycle of program supplies, and the purchase of other retail items in assigned areas of responsibility. This includes but is not limited to: establishing timelines and processes for securing faculty supply requests, estimating quantities to purchase and to sell, making order decisions, meeting deadlines, selecting vendors, submitting orders, determining prices, coordinating returns, and more resulting in effective overall department outcomes.
• Manage and maintain inventory levels, achieve sales objectives, prevent over/under stock positions, meet customer demand for, and access to, required materials, identify and address slow and fast sellers, determine and accomplish out of stock dates accordingly.
• Communicate clearly, accurately, and professionally with all college faculty, staff, colleagues, and vendors when conducting college business. Work to build and maintain positive and productive relationships through demonstrated communication skills, both written and in person.
• Establish and fulfill merchandise plans to meet sales, service, and presentation standards. This includes but is not limited to department layout, shelf setting and merchandise stocking based on product relations, shopper access, and flow of merchandise and other common retail practices.
• Coordinate and direct part-time department staff including hiring, training, scheduling, and guiding and developing.
• Plan, coordinate and facilitate department marketing and promotional events and activities. Support store and college events on request.
• Seek, learn, understand and employ various software solutions and tools to complete work processes.
• Perform related duties as required.

Position Requirements and Competencies

• Associate's degree or equivalent related work experience.
• Two (2) years of experience in a retail setting with demonstrated increased responsibility, including one (1) year of purchasing responsibility in a retail environment.
• One (1) year of demonstrated supervisory or lead experience that shows the ability to supervise, guide, and mentor staff.
• Have a current valid driver's license and current auto insurance.
• Have a reliable means of personal transportation for occasional (2-3 days/month) use.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Exceptional customer service skills in-person, via email and on the phone.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite, including MS Word, Excel (one year of advanced experience including spreadsheet development), Outlook, and SharePoint.
• Experience problem solving and fostering innovative ideas that provide solutions to all types of workplace challenges.