Job Details

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Men's Apparel Buyer & Product Developer to join our team. This role is a unique blend of strategic buying and creative product development, requiring a candidate with a strong understanding of menswear trends, market analysis, and the technical aspects of garment construction. The ideal candidate will be responsible for curating a compelling product assortment while also driving the development of exclusive, private-label collections that resonate with our target customer.

Responsibilities:

Buying & Merchandising:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive buying strategy for men's apparel, aligning with the company's overall business objectives and brand vision.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor activity to identify opportunities and inform buying decisions.
• Source and negotiate with vendors to secure competitive pricing, quality, and delivery terms.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and new vendors.
• Manage open-to-buy budgets and inventory levels, ensuring optimal stock levels and sell-through.
• Collaborate with the visual merchandising and marketing teams to ensure effective product presentation and promotion.
• Conduct regular store visits and market research to stay abreast of current trends and customer preferences.
• Forecast future trends and identify emerging brands to maintain a cutting-edge product assortment.

Product Development:

• Conceptualize and develop private-label men's apparel collections, from initial design to final production.
• Conduct trend research and competitive analysis to identify product opportunities and inform design direction.
• Create detailed tech packs, including specifications, construction details, and fabric selections.
• Source and evaluate fabrics, trims, and other materials.
• Collaborate with pattern makers, sample makers, and factories to ensure accurate and timely sample development.
• Manage the product development calendar and ensure adherence to critical deadlines.
• Conduct fit sessions and provide feedback on samples to ensure quality and consistency.
• Oversee the quality control process to ensure products meet company standards.
• Manage costing and negotiate pricing with factories to achieve target margins.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum [Number] years of experience in men's apparel buying and product development within the retail industry.
• Proven track record of success in developing and managing private-label apparel collections.
• Strong understanding of menswear trends, market analysis, and retail math.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and retail merchandising software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of garment construction, fabric properties, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems is a plus.
• Passion for menswear and a strong understanding of our target customer.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing company.
• Creative and collaborative work environment.
• Employee discounts on merchandise.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.