Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in related fields and two (2) years of professional level purchasing experience; or a combination of related education and work experience to equal six (6) years. Position involves comparing, verifying and reconciling data to help the department achieve overall objectives.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work independently and solve a range of straightforward problems.
• Skill in reading and interpreting purchase requests and other written material.
• Effective use of computer hardware and associated software and maintenance of appropriate systems, records and files.
• Demonstrated ability to follow strategic direction and apply analytical thinking
• Administrative and leadership skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer
University of Minnesota Bookstores


Description of Position
The Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer for the University of Minnesota Bookstores is responsible for supporting merchandise buying of assigned product categories under the guidance of senior procurement staff. This position encompasses work as a cross functional team member within an assigned department or departments within the University of Minnesota Bookstore ensuring excellent customer service and compliance in all activities. This full-time position reports to a senior buyer of the assigned area of responsibility.


Responsibilities


60% - Purchasing

• Buying responsibilities include sourcing product for resale, assist in negotiating standard terms with competing vendors including price, delivery, advertising allowance, returns allowance, payment terms and others; developing and maintaining plan-o-grams for the stores and managing the flow of product to just-in-time principles; effectively displaying, merchandising and promoting the businesses to maximize sales and margin and controlling inventory and markdowns.
• Assist in acquisition and management of assigned product categories.
• Implement sales and marketing strategies for the assigned lines of business.
• Assist in maintaining budget goals pertaining to inventory levels, sales projections, and gross margin profit set forth for the assigned department.
• Verify availability of materials where available, document all pertinent information and enter information into the appropriate applications.
• Solicit and obtain information from other University of Minnesota departmental faculty/staff as assigned.
• Plan purchasing efforts in a way to meet demand yet keep inventory levels at industry and store standards.

30% - Customer Service

• Assist with support, coordination and development of digital material delivery programs where applicable.
• Maintain accurate records and files related to the area of responsibility.
• Advise customers/clients regarding product alternatives.
• Keep floor staff appraised of on-order status and expected delivery dates.
• Manager on duty for Bookstores on assigned nights and weekends.

10% - Other

• Duties as assigned by supervisor

Essential Functions of the Position

• Implement marketing & merchandising plans to support the sales goal for the all assigned product categories.
• Assist in all aspects of the purchasing process including sourcing of the product, negotiating terms, managing flow of product and effective displays under the supervision of a senior buyer.
• Forecast and maintains ideal inventory levels based on demands /or sales trend
• Monitor market trends; obtain comparative data regarding price, quality, quantity, availability and delivery. Keep current on new product developments. Attend trade shows as needed.
• Work with University departments to create a welcoming environment, which supports learning, research and outreach.
• Confer with the supervisor on appropriate University purchasing policies , procedures , and methodologies.

Work Environment
Work is performed mainly in a retail store and office setting.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).

Job Tags

Full time, Work experience placement, Work at office, Night shift, Weekend work

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