Assistant Buyer

4 weeks ago

Akron, United States Ten Thousand Villages Full time
Job DescriptionJob Description

Position Summary:

The Assistant Buyer works closely with the Buying Team to support the purchasing process. The Assistant Buyer prepares orders, submits sample requests, corresponds with artisans, and researches quality problems for resolution. The Assistant Buyer is in frequent contact with artisan groups, as well as nearly all internal departments, working to actively manage all aspects of the product buying and delivery process to ensure efficient and timely execution. *Note: This role requires the applicant to be in the Akron, PA office on Mondays & Wednesdays.

This position supports and contributes to the Ten Thousand Villages mission by:

Communicating directly with artisan groups daily, providing assistance and support in most aspects of the Ten Thousand Villages/artisan group purchasing relationship.

Position Duties/Responsibilities:

Product Development and Purchase Processes (45%)

  • Gather product specifications from Buyer(s) on all new items and script the information onto purchase orders and specification sheets for easy interpretation by artisan groups.
  • Compile the purchase order package including all product guidance such as swatches, photographs, safety requirements, and product information requests from other departments.
  • Meet weekly with Buyer(s) to review product development issues, and other updates related to the purchase order process.
  • Work with Processing Supervisor and Product Coordinator to receive new items and update internal systems to support the new item introduction process
  • Keep physical samples organized throughout the sampling process.

Artisan Relations and Quality Assurance (35%)

  • Track and evaluate artisan confirmations of purchase orders, following up on pricing and product specification questions.
  • Maintain contact with artisan groups responding to questions and interfacing with the Buyer(s) in support of the product development and purchasing process.
  • Work with the Product Coordinator to track quality problems, research the causes, and follow-up with the artisan group on identifying a solution; keep Buyer(s) informed of the situation.

Interface with other Departments (20%)

  • Work closely with the Import Coordinator to exchange information as needed to support the Import Coordinator in making freight arrangements and tracking the shipment of orders.
  • Work with the Product Coordinator, warehouse staff, and artisan groups to monitor the product tag printing and shipping process to ensure timely delivery.
  • Respond to questions internally regarding product materials, care, history, or cultural significance, order status, estimated arrival date, future orders, etc.
  • As needed, work on special projects and assist others in the department to carry out purchasing duties related to other areas.
  • As assigned, represent the department on interdepartmental committees.
  • Interact as opportunity allows with Merchandising to expand understanding of product evolution from artisan to store presentation.
  • Maintain ongoing work of Purchasing Department when Purchasing Manager and/or Buyers are traveling.
  • Perform additional duties/responsibilities as requested which contribute to the position’s success and the mission.

Preferred Experience/Knowledge/Education/Skills/Abilities:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in buying or product design
  • 1+ years’ experience in buying or product design
  • Excellent communication skills necessary to effectively transfer information across cultures; Spanish language ability a plus
  • Advanced organizational skills with thorough attention to detail
  • Aptitude for working with numbers and data quickly yet accurately
  • Enjoy problem solving with a focus on results
  • Demonstrated ability to appropriately respond to shifting priorities and multiple projects
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Strong experience in Microsoft Office applications
  • Familiarity with the product of Ten Thousand Villages or other hand-made products

Types of Interaction (internal):

  • Frequent interaction with Buyers and Product Coordinator
  • Merchandising team, Import Coordinator; and Warehouse staff

Type of Interaction (external):

  • Artisans

Position Specifications:

  • Eligible for monthly hybrid work stipend: Y

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