Category Buyer for Lifestyle and Stationery

The Category Buyer for Lifestyle Accessories & Stationery is responsible for planning, sourcing, and managing the assortment of products that align with the company’s fashion and lifestyle direction. This role ensures the right mix of trendy, high-quality, and profit-driven items across accessories, novelty gifts, plush toys, and stationery categories. The position combines creative trend awareness with strong negotiation and analytical skills to achieve sales, margin, and inventory goals.

Key Responsibilities

Product Selection and Buying

• Identify new trends and best-selling items in lifestyle accessories, stationery, and novelty categories.
• Develop seasonal and promotional product assortments that fit the brand’s target market.
• Evaluate samples and approve materials, designs, and packaging in collaboration with the visual merchandising and marketing teams.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely delivery of products.
  
  

Sourcing and Negotiation

• Source new suppliers locally and internationally to expand product variety and quality.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules to achieve cost efficiency.
• Ensure suppliers meet ethical, quality, and compliance standards.
  
  

Inventory and Sales Management

• Monitor category performance through sales data and inventory reports.
• Manage stock levels to maintain healthy turnover while avoiding overstock or stock-outs.
• Work closely with logistics and warehouse teams to coordinate product arrivals and allocations.
  
  

Collaboration and Coordination

• Coordinate with merchandising, marketing, and visual display teams to ensure cohesive product presentation.
• Provide product knowledge and promotional support to store teams.
• Work with finance and planning to manage purchase budgets and profitability.
  
  

Market and Trend Analysis

• Conduct market visits and competitor analysis to stay updated on current retail and consumer trends.
• Identify potential product gaps and introduce fresh, appealing collections for each season.
  
  

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Fashion Merchandising, Marketing, or a related field.
• At least 2–4 years of experience in buying or merchandising, preferably in a fashion, lifestyle, or retail company.
• Strong understanding of consumer behavior and product lifecycle management.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Proficient in MS Excel or retail management systems (ERP)
• Creative eye for design, color, and market appeal.
  
  

Key Competencies

• Trend awareness and product insight
• Strategic planning and decision-making
• Supplier management and cost negotiation
• Data-driven merchandising analysis
• Team collaboration and communication