Category Merchant Facilities and Breakroom- Hybrid (Framingham, MA)

Staples is focused on our customer and our community. As a Category Merchant for Staples, you will be responsible for the Facilities & Breakroom categories in our US Retail Stores (USR) business

You will also be responsible for achieving financial objectives by developing and executing a customer-centric strategy.  This strategy will be inspired by deep customer insight and will include assortment planning, merchandise and vendor selection, negotiation, financial planning, supply chain and inventory turn implications, advertising plans, merchandise presentation, distribution, vendor relations and administration for assigned lines.

Merchandising is a key strategic pillar of growth for Staples Retail, and this role is critical to accelerating change and super-charging this high-potential business. Our people are the heart of our success and we believe in collaboration, curiosity and continuous learning in all that we think, create and do. We are investing in our people and our stores, empowering our people to learn, grow and deliver. Come be a part of a team that's leading the way in a new era of working and living.

Strategy:

• Acquire a deep understanding of customer needs through research efforts, and field feedback.
• Develop a realistic and effective business plan to achieve budgeted goals in sales, margin, and inventory. Execute that plan to deliver financial results.
• Develop, execute, and effectively communicate strategy to the highest levels of the company.  Ensure plans align with company strategic objectives and goals. 

Assortment Planning:

• Choose assortment items and vendors, influence pricing, and create an elegant customer experience in-store
• Negotiate for lower total delivered cost, volume incentives, rebates, advertising and other applicable allowances.
• Review and approve financial and item forecasts with Planners.
• Effectively partner and influence other cross-functional partners, such as Pricing, Site Merchandising, Marketing, Portfolio, Inventory + Planning, and more.
• Manage support team.

Essential skills and experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Minimum 4-6 years total experience in buying related functions
• Expert knowledge of industry trends, competition, assortment planning, customer behaviors, inventory management, logistics and marketing techniques.

Preferred skills and experience:

• Demonstrated in-depth knowledge in financial analysis and forecasting. 
• Expert negotiating skills with highest level internally and externally. 
• Accomplished in holding a team accountable to achieve measurable results. 
• Multiple category experience including large P+L management is preferred. 

Get great perks.

• Generous amount of paid time off, hybrid work hours, and bonus plan
• 401(k) plan with a company match, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, and many more benefits
• On-site, discounted childcare, fitness center and dry cleaners in Framingham, MA corporate office
• Associate store discount and more perks (discounts on mobile plans, movie tickets, etc.)

The world of working and learning has changed. This is your opportunity to be a part of a brand transformation and growth strategy within the retail industry. Staples is helping our customers and community discover innovative products, services, and inspiration that unlock what’s possible, while empowering you to unlock your potential. Our people are the heart of our success and there has never been a better time to join us as we lead the way in a new era of working and learning.

Want to learn more about Staples Stores? Visit RetailCareers.Staples.com for information and to learn about our career opportunities.

Click here to learn more about the employee benefits, programs and perks offered at Staples! 

Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.  
Staples is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please