Assistant Buyer

Company DescriptionFounded in 1989, Plush Appeal, LLC is the biggest and best wholesale and retail supplier of Mardi Gras beads and party supplies in New Orleans, Louisiana. Our website is mardigrasspot.com. We also promote and market our products on various digital platforms including Amazon, Walmart, Facebook, and Google. We are a dynamic company looking for an individual who is excited about sharing their skills and ideas and joining a team that is passionate about what they do every dayPosition SummaryAssist the Buying Manager in daily task supporting the development, production and shipment of merchandise.  Position Responsibilities·   Work with stateside overseas suppliers to negotiate pricing and place bulk orders. Analize inventory spreadsheets to assist in the purchasing processCreate and maintain detailed spreadsheets for costing and orderingSpreadsheets are used through out the production process. They are the back bone of the production process and must be:Organized, accurate and consistent with ASP to allow efficient transfer of dateUp to date and in sync with open documentation and readily available for reference and updates. Generate and submit production specifications to approved supplier to obtain bids, MOQ and lead-timeEvaluate bids and make counter offers to secure favorable cost Source and vet new suppliers as needed  Assist in product development for new seasonal items Write Purchase OrdersCreate purchase orders for bulk production sans sampling, ensuring they are prepared accurate submitted for approval Create and Maintain Pricing DocumentationAssist in the creation of and maintenance of master pricing list by product categoryCreate wholesale pricing catalogs by product category. Obtain and approve Pre-Production and Top-of-Production samplesCompare design specifications and pictures to Pre-Production samples to confirm materials, weight, dimensions, functionality and qualityReview, scan and edit item labels for proper information and UPC barcode. Communicate authorization to suppliers to start production Review Top-of Production samples against approval Pre-Production samples and negotiate with supplier for refunds on any incorrect bulk goodsBulk Production Management and ShippingAssist in the management of the production lead time through weekly WIP (Work in Progress) reports to ensure on-time deliveryConfirm shipping instructions to suppliers  Showroom Management Ensure showrooms have accurate pre-production samples of each item on order and have accurate item date and barcodesUpdate showrooms with Top -of- Production Samples as needed.Collaborate with other departments to establish vendor and items records Provide Purchasing/Receiving/ Inventory departments with essential item and vendor information to establish accurate records. Provide Data Management with standardized information to establish new or modify existing items Work with the Ecommerce Photographer to ensure all new items, domestic and imported, have pictures and long descriptions Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s Degree in related field (Fashion Merchandising, Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance) Experience: 3+ Years of experience in related fields Skills and Capabilities:·        Proficient computer skills required in Microsoft Office, specifically excel·        Strong negotiating skills ·        Strong verbal and written communication·        Multi-tasking ·        Problem solving skills ·        Detailed note taking ·        Results driven ·        Ability to work within a team·        Ability to keep up with current trends both local and national            Benefits: Medical, Paid Time Off, Profit Sharing Work EnvironmentThe physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by and employs to successfully perform the essential functions of this hob. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position is a 100% in person office role, which operates in an office setting. The noise level is usually moderately quiet. The work area has high lighting levels, temperature is controlled and has limited potential for hazards. This position requires standing and sitting at a desk and involves computer work. Vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. During the company’s season, Mardi Gras work hours can be increases to six days a week with extended hours during the day and overtime may occur during these periods. Overtime and /or the necessity to respond to issues during off hours may be required.