Associate Category Merchant Quill Lincolnshire,IL Description for Internal Candidates Quill makes the job of ordering supplies easier and more rewarding. While delivering everything from paper, ink, and toner to cleaning supplies and technology. Quill showcases exceptional customer service. Quill had proven to be a trusted partner of Staples since being acquired in 1998. What you’ll be doing: · With assistance from Senior Category Merchant or DMM, accurately interpret financial statements, total costs to serve the product, financial levers and metrics used in merchandising to understand current and future trends. Identify exceptions and seek additional information when data discrepancies are found. · With support from Category Merchant or Director, develops realistic and effective business plans for assigned product lines to achieve budgeted goals in sales, margin, supply chain impact, driving execution and adjustments of the plan. Identify alternatives for driving sales in face of negative trends. · Develop deep understanding of customer’s needs and behaviors through customer research. Leverage customer knowledge and identify market trends create selling approaches that give Quill.com a competitive advantage. With support from Category Merchant or Director, develop assortment plans that anticipate customer needs and select vendors for assigned product lines. · Work closely with Staples Merchant teams to understand terms of Vendor Program Agreements and to ensure Quill specific asks are included. With guidance from Category Merchant or Director, negotiate with vendors for lowest total delivered cost, volume incentives, rebates, advertising, and other applicable allowances that apply to the Vendor Program Agreement (VPA). Negotiate incremental Quill specific promotional and Key Supplier Program funding specific to assigned lines of responsibility. · Review and approve promo item forecast with Planners for assigned product lines. · Effectively manage Return and Allowance rates by identifying problematic SKUs and developing mitigation plans. · In collaboration with cross-function team and manager approval, develops disposition plans for vendor transitions and SKU end of life. · Define role of Own Brand within assigned categories of responsibility. Develop and execute Own Brand strategies within the portfolio. · Develop and deploy plans to create the most effortless and friendly online experience through the eyes of the customer. Optimize online shopping experience and revenue through search, browse, ribbons, content, imagery, attributes, cross selling, attachments, product relationships and other enhanced selling tools. · Utilize insights from web and customer analytics, for on-line, digital, print and sales channels. Partner cross-functionally with channel partners to gain deeper insights, communicate category strategies, and flawlessly execute plans. Understand our targeted marketing capabilities to enhance those contacts and maximize the results of our business. · Jointly develop market based pricing strategies with pricing team. Modify as needed based on market conditions and business demands. · Responsible for executing promotional plans driven by the Go to Market team. Provide input on the best promotions based on the market conditions, sales forecast, category role, vendor negotiations, promo allowances, existing tools, Quill strategies and promo negotiations. Meet with vendors in development of growth and promotional plans. · Facilitate the sharing of business insights and product knowledge with cross-functional teams that support their product lines. · Coach Product Specialists to ensure flawless execution of product line plans. · Develop team members to learn and advance within the company with timely feedback, effective development plans and performance appraisals. Make hiring decisions for staff and ensure there are clear and effective onboarding plans for new associates. What you bring to the table: · Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills. · Ability to drive sales and margin results. · General knowledge of industry trends, assortment planning, customer buying patterns, inventory management, logistics and marketing techniques. · Ability to work independently, prioritize and re-prioritize tasks based on fluctuating deadlines while continually meeting deadlines. · Organizational skills and detail orientated. · Ability to analyze data, understand key indicators and make decisions using that data. What’s needed- Basic Qualifications: · 3+ years of experience in related functions (merchandising, buying, planning, inventory management.) · PC literate with the ability to develop and manipulate spreadsheets. · Basic knowledge of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. What’s needed- Preferred Qualifications: · Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience We Offer: · Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups · Flexible PTO (22 days) and Holiday Schedule · Online and Retail Discounts, Company Match 401(k), Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs, and more! Job Ref: 673