
Job Information
Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health Kripalu Shop Apparel Buyer in Stockbridge, Massachusetts
The full Kripalu Shop Apparel Buyer job description{target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"} 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.