As a member of Pottery Barn’s talented merchandising team, you’ll join a collaborative group that combines creativity, data analysis, and trend forecasting to build product assortments that resonate with customers. This dynamic team is focused on developing strategies that drive sales growth and keep our collections fresh, engaging, and on-trend.
Role Overview
Reporting to a Buyer, the Assistant Buyer shares responsibility for a specific category and contributes to day-to-day and seasonal tasks to support business objectives. This role requires both a creative and analytical approach, with key responsibilities in data management, market analysis, and collaboration across multiple departments. As an Assistant Buyer, you’ll work on-site in our San Francisco office Monday through Thursday, with the option to work remotely on Fridays.
Key Responsibilities
- Merchandising & Data Management
- Manage SKU setup and maintenance within merchandise systems to ensure accuracy across the product lifecycle.
- Oversee visual line lists and merchandise details to ensure the collection aligns with brand standards.
- Prepare and distribute SKU worksheets, monitor SKU approval processes, and track them against PO timelines.
- Project Communication & Sample Coordination
- Collaborate with the warehouse and photo teams to monitor sample requests and ensure samples are available for promotional and visual needs.
- Regularly communicate updates on projects and samples, facilitating clear timelines and expectations across teams.
- Reporting & Analysis
- Generate performance reports to help identify key business opportunities.
- Assist the Buyer by analyzing data to support informed merchandising decisions.
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Partner with Visual and Inventory teams to assist in planning seasonal retail floor sets and walkthroughs.
- Maintain close relationships with cross-functional teams in design, e-commerce, inventory, and creative to streamline communication and ensure product integrity across platforms.
- Pricing & Personalization
- Manage and adjust pricing for both direct-to-consumer (DTC) and retail sales in collaboration with inventory and sourcing teams.
- Coordinate personalized product features for photography and site visuals.
- Competitive Market Analysis
- Keep up with trends and market changes by regularly conducting competitive analysis and staying informed on retail developments.
Criteria for Success
- Educational & Experience Requirements
- BA/BS degree required.
- 1-2 years of experience in retail buying, with a strong command of retail math.
- Skills & Competencies
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced Excel capabilities (pivot tables, VLOOKUP).
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting.
- Ability to make independent, informed decisions and handle shifting priorities.
- Additional Requirements
- Occasional travel within the Bay Area may be required for photo shoots and store setup events.
Culture & Values
Pottery Barn’s workplace culture is built on mutual respect, inclusivity, and opportunities for growth. We encourage every team member to bring their authentic selves to work, valuing a diverse range of perspectives. In our workplace:
- We uphold transparency, equity, and support for individual growth and well-being.
- We celebrate diversity and work actively toward a more inclusive environment where team members feel valued.
- Our goal is to cultivate a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and exceptional customer experiences.
Benefits
Pottery Barn’s commitment to supporting our team members includes a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
- Financial Benefits
- Generous employee discount across Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands.
- A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities.
- Commuter benefits and financial wellness programs.
- Health & Wellness
- Health, dental, and vision insurance, including same-sex domestic partner benefits.
- Paid vacation, holidays, and time off for volunteer work.
- Wellness programs designed to support physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
- Learning & Development
- Access to in-person and online learning opportunities through WSI University.
- Cross-functional career paths and growth opportunities within and across brands.
- Professional development resources, including mentoring programs and speaker series.
Important Information
- Immigration & Sponsorship
- Williams-Sonoma, Inc. does not currently sponsor employment-based immigration for this position.
- Relocation Assistance
- This role is not eligible for relocation assistance.
- Compensation
- Starting pay is estimated at $65,000 per year, with additional compensation opportunities based on experience and performance.
To apply for this job please visit www.glassdoor.com.