Position Description: The Assistant Merchant will support the Merchant in the execution of strategies along with growing and learning to develop the long-range business strategy within the area. This role includes strong attention to detail and excellent analytical abilities to assist with vendor communication, data integrity, retail presentations (sets) in order to improve profitability.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Assist and support the Merchant in determining the assortment of products best suited to our customer(s) needs and aligned with the merchandising strategy in each area.
• Assist and execute strategies for stock items and special-order items responsible for the accuracy of the Vendor Information and Special-Order Information Files
• Obtain the necessary information for item creation and maintenance in D365. Maintain data integrity to support sourcing, replenishment, available to promise dates
• Maintain data related to terms of sale including payment terms, lead time, delivery cadence, minimum order requirements, prepaid freight minimums
• Develop collaborative relationships with vendors to ensure inquiries are responded to in a timely fashion.
• Research and resolve billing inquiries and issues
• Engage in vendor meetings as suitable from discussions with Merchant
• Ensure pricing (both purchase and retail trade agreements) are correct and as intended
• Assist Merchant with overall assortment presentation in the stores, managing assortment to business opportunity and space allocation
• Assist in the development of presentation briefs, critical paths or PCNs for new or clearance items
• Execute data entry in promotional spaces planner as required
• Assist Merchant in the development of marketing strategies
• Work with Merchant in the communication of data needed to successfully execute marketing strategies

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred or equivalent work experience. Specialized training or related coursework in Retail Administration, Merchandising, Business, or another related field of study is helpful
• Minimum of two years’ experience in a retail setting or a related merchandising experience
• Proficiency (or ability to become proficient) with MS Office applications; Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, including Vlookups, pivot tables, data comparison tools
• Ability to become proficient in platforms such as D365 and Syndigo

What’s in Friedman’s toolbox for Team Members

• 401(k) match up to 3% and 50 cents on the dollar for any amount greater than 3% up to 5%
• Medical, Dental and Vision bundled benefit plan
• Team Member discount on all merchandise
• Safety ‘spin-to-win’ opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement to further career path

Location/Hours: This is an exempt position located at the Friedman’s Home Improvement retail store in Santa Rosa, CA. Hours are to meet the needs of the retail business, Sunday – Saturday. Ability to work holidays and weekends required.

Friedman’s Home Improvement is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. Friedman’s Home Improvement will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal convictions in a manner consistent with AB 1008.