Title: Senior Buyer, Footwear

Location: Hybrid, NY or Boston

Salary Range: $105,000 - $125,000

 

About the role

As a Senior Buyer at Rue Gilt Groupe (RGG), you will be a visionary leader within our Footwear category, responsible for driving high-impact results that align with our mission to be the most engaging online off-price style destination. You will lead a team to develop and execute merchandise strategies that maximize profitability while consistently "surprising and delighting" our members.

This role is critical to RGG’s larger business objectives; you will combine data-driven "science" with the "art" of merchandising to solve complex business problems at a rapid pace. You will act as a primary driver of growth, ensuring our footwear offerings spark delight through daily discovery

 

Key responsibilities

Strategy & Innovation

• Develop and execute a comprehensive footwear strategy that maximizes profitability and market share

• Identify and capitalize on potential brand and product business opportunities
• Leverage market trends and data-driven analysis to anticipate customer needs and innovate the product assortment

Business Operations & Relationships

• Drive sales performance, meet revenue goals, and deliver consistent margin improvements.
• Build and maintain direct relationships with key suppliers, including vetting new prospects and negotiating complex contracts, terms, and conditions.
• Manage inventory and turn through proven analytical thinking to ensure optimal stock health.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with Marketing, AP, Programming, Planning, and Production teams to ensure footwear products are properly merchandised
• Collaborate across departments to include all pertinent information in sales events, maximizing sale potential
• Lead and mentor a team, fostering an environment of empowered decision-making and professional growth.

About you

You are a self-starter and a tenacious problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You are "product obsessed" and possess a critical eye for trends, balanced by a disciplined, analytical mindset. You value kindness and straightforward communication, treating others as you want to be treated while engaging in spirited, passionate debates to reach the best outcomes. You are a collaborative partner who listens to diverse perspectives and is not afraid to take creative risks to lead rather than follow.

Experience and background needed

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising, Business, or a related field preferred.

Years of experience

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in retail or e-commerce.
• At least 4 years of direct buying experience, specifically within footwear or a high-growth fashion category

Technical skills

• Advanced analytical skills with a focus on sales, inventory, and turn metrics.
• Expertise in vendor negotiation and contract management
• Proficiency in retail math and e-commerce merchandising tools

 

What our team offers

Working at RGG is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to join a mission-driven team that values Innovation and Impact. We are committed to supporting our employees' success and well-being:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Robust health, dental, and vision insurance effective on the date of hire.
• Time & Flexibility: Generous Flex Time Off (FTO) and flexible remote/hybrid work options that support a healthy work-life balance.
• Culture: A supportive, inclusive culture that encourages innovation, safety, and creative risk-taking.
• Community: Paid volunteer opportunities and regular DEI celebrations to foster a strong sense of community and collaboration.
• Impact: The chance to make a real, measurable impact at a mission-driven, fast-growing company poised for major expansion.

 

We encourage you to apply

Even if you don’t meet every single qualification, we’d still love to hear from you. We value passion, curiosity, and a commitment to learning as much as experience.  We celebrate diverse perspectives and strive to create an inclusive environment for all our Associates.

 

Work Authorization

Rue Gilt Groupe requires all applicants to be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future. Rue Gilt Groupe is an Equal Opportunity