Grocery Buyer

ABOUT THE COMPANYHappier Grocery is a health-forward Grocery Store that seeks to provide a lifestyle oasis for New Yorkers. We are committed to providing the highest quality food and lifestyle experience. Our mission is to create a buying experience where shoppers need not scrutinize every food label, and to provide a place of community, positivity, and life-affirming nutrition and enjoyment. SUMMARYThe center store buyer will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing goods to ensure optimal in-stock levels, margins and product assortment for our clients, while supporting and working collaboratively with team members. This role analyzes sales and inventory data, maintains strong vendor relationships and supports overall category strategy for the grocery department. This position must be performed in accordance with team and store standard operating procedures. The center store buyer will support Happier Grocery core values and promote store programs, initiatives and ensure adherence to all applicable health and safety regulations.This role is based out of the Happier Grocery store on Canal Street and report to the Director of Store Operations. This is not an office role.RESPONSIBILITIESWrites orders for all center store under direction from, and in collaboration with, the Director of Category Management and Sourcing ManagerManage the product life cycle understanding consumer preferences and competitive dynamicsAnalyze sales, margin, and inventory data to create accurate replenishment orders, manage turns and shrinkMonitor inventory levels, review stock status vs. physical counts done by store and work with managing team to resolve discrepanciesMake recommendations based on market trends, performance, supplier reliability, and consumer demandStrong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills with vendors and internal teamsProvide product and pricing recommendations to ensure an effective balance of volume and marginFoster strong vendor relationships by addressing issues related to invoicing, product quality, or deliveryImplement category reviews and performance improvement plans to enhance procurement and sales effectivenessWorks closely with receiving team and finance and supports corporate team as neededComplies with established procedures and company policies, ensuring compliance with food and safety regulations and adheres to a safe work practiceWHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR2+ years retail grocery experience is required, ideally in dry goods or center store.Comprehensive knowledge of commodity and grocery markets, specifically in natural foods products.Demonstrated analytical ability and comfort working with sales, margin, and inventory reports.Open availability and ability to work rotating shifts Monday through Sunday including some holidaysAvailable for flexible scheduling to meet the needs of the department and businessComputer literate; Excel, ERP and inventory systemsAbility to educate team on product knowledge and convey enthusiasmMeet customer service expectations and standards in all interactions with customers, vendors, and team membersAbility to follow directions and procedures; effective time management and organization skillsStrong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgencyBi-lingual (English/Spanish) a plusThis job will require standing or walking for extended periods of time and lifting up to 50 pounds.