Job Description

The full Kripalu Shop Apparel Buyer job description contains more information on this position.

Key Responsibilities

Product Selection and Curation
- Source and procure high-quality yoga, activewear, loungewear, and lifestyle apparel that aligns with Kripalu's ethos.
- Collaborate with the retail, programming, and marketing teams to align product offerings with seasonal trends, guest needs, and Kripalu's brand identity.
- Stay informed about industry trends in yoga, wellness, and sustainable fashion to ensure the apparel offerings remain relevant and appealing to guests.
- Analyze guest demographics and purchasing patterns to guide product selection and pricing strategies.
- Buy additional product categories as needed.

Performance Management
- Track and report on sales performance, inventory turnover, and customer satisfaction metrics.
- Provide insights and recommendations to the Senior Director of Revenue Management to improve the category's overall performance.

Vendor Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, prioritizing local, women and BIPOC-owned, organic, fair trade, and environmentally sustainable brands.
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery schedules to secure the best terms while supporting ethical sourcing practices.
- Regularly evaluate vendor performance and seek new partnerships to enhance product selection and alignment with Kripalu's mission and revenue goals.

Inventory Management
- Oversee inventory levels to ensure an optimal balance between demand, stock availability, and cost efficiency.
- Conduct regular inventory assessments to identify bestsellers, slow-moving items, and restocking needs.
- Utilize inventory management software to track sales and adjust purchasing strategies as needed.
- Partner with the stockroom team to address vendor disputes, returns, and exchanges promptly and effectively.

Collaborative Merchandising
- Partner with the retail team to create engaging and aesthetically beautiful in-store displays.
- Continuously analyze product placement with sale volume to optimize in-store experiences.

Feedback and Education
- Integrate guest feedback into purchasing decisions.
- Educate staff with product knowledge to enhance the guest shopping experience.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in retail buying, preferably in apparel.
- Demonstrated ability to analyze sales data and market trends to inform purchasing decisions.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Proficiency in inventory management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Bachelor's Degree in Retail Management, Business, Fashion Merchandising, or related field preferred.

Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time while performing desk-based tasks, including analyzing reports and entering data into inventory management systems.
- Manual dexterity is required for typing, using office equipment, and interacting with product displays and merchandise.
- Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds, including merchandise and boxes.
- Occasional standing or walking for extended periods while managing in-store displays, inventory, and interacting with staff and customers.

Additional Skills and Abilities (nice to have, but not necessary)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Knowledge of sustainable fashion trends and a commitment to ethical sourcing practices.
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including retail, marketing, and programming departments.