Outfitters Associate Buyer

Job Description
Role Summary

Urban Outfitters is looking for an Associate Buyer who supports the development of a customer-focused, trend-relevant product assortment that aligns with the Urban Outfitters (UO) brand. This role works closely with the Buying, Planning and Allocation teams to assist in assortment planning, vendor communication, and product development. The Associate Buyer uses data and market insights to inform decisions, contributing to both core business and fashion-forward initiatives.

Role Responsibilities

Assortment Strategy

Assist in building a balanced and brand-appropriate assortment by analyzing customer feedback and market trends.
Support the development of core business categories while incorporating seasonal newness and new brands.
Help maintain the appropriate mix of private label and branded products across categories.
Contribute to monthly shop planning and seasonal line reviews.

Fashion & Trend Awareness

Stay informed on beauty trends, styles, and cultural shifts through industry publications, fashion shows, and social media.
Provide input on product selection with a strong sense of style and customer relevance.
Monitor competitive landscape and identify emerging trends to support assortment decisions.

Vendor Relationships

Communicate professionally with vendors to support product development and delivery timelines.
Assist in negotiating pricing, delivery, and terms under the guidance of the Buyer.
Help identify and onboard new suppliers and brands to enhance the product mix.

Planning & Financial Support

Support Open to Buy (OTB) management by maintaining flow sheets and item plans.
Monitor business performance and assist in executing reorders, cancellations, and markdowns.
Understand seasonality and contribute to inventory planning and profitability strategies.

Data Utilization

Analyze sales velocity, returns, markdowns, and customer behavior to inform buying decisions.
Participate in in-season and post-season hindsight reviews to evaluate performance and identify opportunities.
Use data to support product recommendations and assortment adjustments.

Collaboration & Communication

Work cross-functionally with Planning, Allocation, and Buying teams to ensure alignment on product and business goals.
Communicate clearly and professionally across teams and with external partners.
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Role Qualifications

Education: Fashion or merchandising degree or equivalent experience desired.

Experience: 3+ years of experience in a buying or retail role is preferred.

Demographic Knowledge: Demonstrate an understanding of the target customer and the ability to select the appropriate product/trend that will appeal to the customer and meet their expectations.

Analytical Understanding: Comfort with use of statistical components of the business (IMU%, MD%, GM%, selloff, WOS, etc.) and the OTB.

Communication: Positive, professional, and timely communication with teams, supporting departments, vendors, and suppliers.

Time Management: Proactively plans and controls time to efficiently deliver team priorities and meet deadlines.

Detail Orientation: Focus on and manage the small details of a task or project to consistently produce high-quality work.

Ownership: Take responsibility for the outcomes of your work and the decisions that lead to those outcomes. Hold yourself accountable.

Inclusivity: Commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace.