Associate Merchant (Hybrid)

***This is a hybrid role based in Hoffman Estates, IL***

The Associate Merchant will be responsible for supporting in the delivery of key financial metrics for their respective department/class with key responsibilities that include merchandising strategy, business analysis, line building, building cross-functional relationships. The Associate Merchant will play a key role in overseeing Assistant Merchant tasks and execution.

Main Responsibilities

• Support Merchant or Merchandise Manager and merchandising team on all day-to-day functions for assigned category, in addition to learning and taking ownership for assigned area
• In partnership with Merchant/Merchandise Manager, compile seasonal hindsights, develop seasonal merchandise strategy and roadmap for assigned area of responsibility that ties to financial plans and seasonal goals
• Analyze business and key KPIs weekly and seasonally, and present recommendations & findings to leads; take ownership for area of responsibility, support on balance of areas
• Own seasonal buys and style ranking for area of ownership; In partnership with Merchant/Merchandise Manager, create pre-season promotional strategies. Support lead on balance of category where required
• Manage and oversee product tracking for assigned category to ensure on time delivery. Elevate any potential risk to upper management.
• Develop and maintain cross-functional relationships with Design, Product Development, Marketing, Planning, ISP and other merchandising partners to collaborate on seasonal buying process

• Expert in customer and global competition for assigned department, understanding other retailers’ assortments, pricing and promotional strategies in comparison to Claire’s/Icing; Reports back findings, white space opportunities, and any relevant actions

• Oversee execution and completion of assistant level tasks which include sample tracking and management, creation, preparation and maintenance of reports and recaps, purchase order creation and maintenance

• Manage all e-mail correspondence effectively and efficiently, escalating concerns where necessary to the merchandising team
• Create and facilitate an effective work environment by coaching, developing and mentoring team, developing a common vision, setting clear objectives, modeling teamwork, recognizing and maintaining open communication
• Maintain all seasonal selling reports & records (recaps, style boards, line sheets) and distribute to cross-functional partners as needed to maintain clear communication across the organization

Education and/or Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising, business, or related field

Essential Criteria, Competencies and Skills

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA & SKILLS

• 2-3 years merchandising or retail buying experience
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and solution oriented decision-making
• Strong organizational, planning, administrative, and written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of retail math
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint and Excel)

• DRIVE FOR RESULTS: Takes ownership and responsibility to achieve business results. Effectively prioritizes daily assignments and plans to work accordingly. Consistently meets deadlines and expectations.
• LEARNING ORIENTED: Actively develops self and/or others using internal/external methods for growth. Pushes self by setting challenging goals to continuously improve.
• ENERGIZE OTHERS: Proactively motivates and inspires others and positively challenges others to be their best. Works collaboratively with other team members. Seeks opportunity to bring positive energy into the workplace.
• CHAMPION OF CHANGE: Embraces new ways of working, has continuous improvement mindset and inspires others.

Final compensation will be determined by various factors such as your relevant work experience, education, certifications, skills, and geographic location.

Benefits for full time employees included medical, dental and vision insurance, voluntary welfare plans, bonus plan eligibility, 401(k) match, vacation time, sick time, and more! 

Benefits for part time employees included voluntary welfare plans, 401(k) match, vacation time, sick time, and more!

Claire's is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and we encourage applications from members of all underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities. We will accommodate applicants' needs, upon request, throughout all stages of the recruitment process. Please inform us of the accommodation(s) that you may require.