Category Implementation Specialist (Buying Assistant/Junior Buyer): Hardware & Cleaning Tools
Managed over 900 SKUs from 20+ distinct categories worth over $100M. Executed all line reviews and assortment updates as team lead, with additional buying responsibility. Reviewed, edited, and approved promotional material. Served as subject matter expert (SME) for 487+ stores and customers. • Purchased new power bar assortment, brand and pricing architecture leading to the development of a new premium private label sub-brand that contributed to 8% sales growth, improving margin 700 basis points. Streamlined assortment and updated design/technology, meeting current customer needs and expectations. Negotiated optimal MOQs and cost reductions, minimizing excess inventory and increasing profitability.• Resourced V-belts and pulleys and implemented cross-dock replenishment, reducing supply chain handling costs 15% and saving 10% in product costs. • Planned and executed exciting promotional and pricing strategies, driving sales while maximizing margin in face of strong competition.• Assisted with inventory plan development, minimizing excess inventory by timing procurement for peak season. • Issued requests for quotes (RFQ) in SAP, supporting line review/assortment update cost analysis and execution. • Participated in planogram (POG) development, providing insight into customer purchasing behavior and brand/pricing architecture, improving shopability and sales. Managed and tracked samples from vendors for POG development. • Facilitated Quality Assurance (QA) testing through collaborative acceptance criteria development. Liaised with QA, 3rd-party and vendor, resolving issues or delays to expedite sample receipt and testing. • Created point-of-purchase (POP) signage to educate customers, driving in-store purchasing behavior.• Managed and coordinated annual internal trade shows as team lead, overseeing multiple managers and specialists.• Sourced a new brand and assortment of premium cleaning tools, saving 30% on costs and growing sales 10%.