Assistant Buyer - International

Company Overview

Based in Southern California, Skechers is a prominent lifestyle brand known as The Comfort Technology Company®. For over three decades, it has been dedicated to producing stylish, high-quality footwear, apparel, and accessories that ensure comfort for men, women, and children worldwide.

Role Summary

The Assistant Buyer for International markets partners closely with the International Buying team to implement merchandising strategies tailored to specific global markets and brands. Reporting to the Buyer, this position involves evaluating market and product data to guide assortment, pricing, and inventory decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Buyer in creating and executing seasonal assortment and merchandising plans aligned with designated international markets and brands.
• Analyze trends in the marketplace, consumer behavior, inventory statuses, product performance, and Open-to-Buy budgets; identify opportunities and risks with strategic recommendations.
• Review assortment performance to advise on product selection, quantity, market distribution, replenishment, and inventory positioning.
• Assist in product meetings and assortment reviews, ensuring preparedness and contribution.
• Manage assortment planning tools and maintain processes that inform buying decisions.
• Propose pricing strategies, including markdowns for both stores and e-commerce channels, based on performance and market conditions.
• Conduct ad hoc business analyses and undertake special projects supporting merchandising goals.

Business Analysis and Communication

• Aggregate and interpret weekly and seasonal sales and inventory reports to discern performance patterns and critical metrics.
• Develop and present clear business analyses and reports highlighting risks, opportunities, and support strategic choices.
• Create and maintain dashboards and reporting tools utilized by the Buying team.
• Prepare materials for business reviews and assist key initiatives and internal meetings.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with teams including Planning, Allocation, Product, Marketing, and Visual Merchandising.
• Engage with international and franchise partners to gather market insights and support execution of merchandising strategies.

Order Management and System Duties

• Facilitate purchase order execution according to approved buying strategies, including product setup and classification.
• Monitor purchase orders from issuance to delivery, identifying and communicating potential issues.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records related to purchases, assortment decisions, and business communications.
• Continuously seek and suggest improvements to reporting, workflows, and business practices within the Buying department.
• Undertake other duties and special projects as needed.
• Stay informed of retail trends, consumer behaviors, competitors, and international market conditions relevant to assigned responsibilities.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proven ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make informed, actionable recommendations.
• Strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills, capable of working independently.
• Highly organized with attention to detail and aptitude for managing multiple tasks in a dynamic setting.
• Effective communication, collaboration, and task follow-through skills.
• Experience working with cross-functional and international teams.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, Buying & Merchandising, or a related discipline preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in buying, merchandising, or fashion retail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint and strong understanding of retail mathematics.

Compensation

The annual salary for this position ranges from $72,000 to $79,000 USD.

Equal Employment and Accommodation Policy

Skechers champions a diverse, safe, and respectful workplace and is an equal opportunity employer committed to non-discrimination based on any protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request to applicants with disabilities to assist with the application process.