Position Overview:

The Vice President Lead Merchandising is a member of the WSS management team reporting to the SVP, General Manager, WSS.

This position is responsible for leading and managing the divisional product strategy including product selection, vendor management, inventory planning and allocation of product to ensure maximum sales, profits and liquidation with the correct levels of inventory and margin, in tune with divisional and Company merchandise strategies.

Tasks & Responsibilities:

Build our business by creating and implementing product strategies to meet the financial objectives of the company
Innovate and drive best practice, to create a function that supports the company's broader goals of growth and high standards of customer experience, through assortment and presentation best practices in all channels
Lead Buying teams to define the product mix, identify trends and observe the activities of the market and competitors to identify new opportunities, as well as maintain communication with Operations & Marketing to identify customer product preferences.
Identify emerging styles/trends/behaviors within our core consumer segments. Initiate product tests to lead the market in emerging opportunities and look to scale early market entry to a large commercial business as warranted. Ensure team is equally engaged in social media and trend identification.
Build favorable external relationships and reputation in the retail industry with our vendor partners. Negotiate with vendors on quantity, delivery deadlines and price, to maximize company's profits and surpass goals.
Partner with the Marketing team to develop program ideas that are grounded in product buys and which drive consumer excitement and sell through.
Lead and develop the inventory planning process, implementing seasonal plans, sales volume, inventory turnover, promotional and markdown strategies. Drive these decisions and strategies to ensure achievement of sales plans/forecast.
Lead monthly forecasting process and seasonal budget planning. Ensure reporting identifies risks and opportunities to sales and margin.
Keep abreast of industry best practices and monitor financial performance against corporate objectives - address improvement opportunities.
Manage execution of the stores assortment plans and the optimal balancing of merchandise inventories by store.
Establish strategic guidelines for writing purchase orders to fill customer's by-size inventory needs in the stores. Set standards to ensure the allocation team executes against these guidelines.
Build capable teams and identify training and on-the-job opportunities for growth and professional development. Lead the department's annual performance review and executive development review processes.

Qualification Requirements:

Minimum of 10+ years of experience leading merchant teams
BS/ BA degree in Business or Marketing or related experience.
Thorough knowledge of product selection, inventory planning, trend-forecasting, marketing, inventory control, budgeting, financial planning and distribution
Expert knowledge of Retail mathematical calculations and measures.

ABOUT WSS:

WSS is the premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores. Consumers trust WSS for the best brands, greatest values, and largest selection of athletic, dress, fashion, and casual footwear for the entire family. Our store format enables us to showcase thousands of styles from top brands like Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Vans, Converse, Puma, etc. In addition, WSS carries high quality private brands augmenting the breadth of selection to deliver amazing value to our customers.

Founded in Southern California in 1984 by entrepreneur Eric Alon, all WSS stores feature a unique retail format that displays every style and size. This allows customers to browse on their terms, in a hassle-free environment, engaging the friendly and knowledgeable sales staff when they choose. The success of this business model has allowed WSS to continue its rapid expansion into new markets.

WSS is committed to giving back to the communities we serve, sponsoring or participating in over 350 local events each year. Stay connected to us via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and at www.shopwss.com.

WSS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetics or any other basis forbidden under federal, state, or local law. WSS is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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Vice President Lead Merchandising