Emma Vita
Ottawa,Ontario
Summary
Results-driven merchandising professional with extensive experience in maximizing gross profit through strategic planning, market analysis, and effective vendor management. Proven track record in developing and implementing merchandise strategies, enhancing product assortments, and optimizing inventory turnover.
Skilled at fostering long-term supplier relationships, negotiating competitive pricing, and reducing procurement costs through strategic sourcing and competitive bidding. A collaborative team player with a commitment to continuous improvement, mentoring junior team members, and enhancing operational efficiency.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Buyer
Designer Brands Canada
08.2022 - 04.2024
- Developed and implemented plans to maximize gross profit utilizing sales, gross margin, inventory turnover, cost of promotion, and markdowns for areas managed.
- Analyzed market trends and competitive landscape to curate product assortments through independent purchasing.
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors, negotiated product pricing, quantities and delivery timelines.
- Coordinated with Allocation and Marketing teams for timely merchandise flow to align forecasts and maximize opportunities.
- Reduced procurement costs through strategic sourcing, competitive bidding, and effective negotiations.
- Provided training and mentorship to junior team members on best practices in purchasing, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement department.
- Traveled to Honduras, Central America, with Soles4Souls, representing my company to distribute donated footwear and clothing to underserved communities in need.
Assistant Buyer
Designer Brands Canada
03.2018 - 08.2022
- Reviewed purchasing trends and forecast demand for inventory planning and replenishment.
- Assisted in developing seasonal buying plans, ensuring optimal merchandise assortment to meet customer demands.
- Maintained accurate purchase order records, ensuring timely delivery of goods and smooth communication with vendors.
- Collaborated with marketing teams to develop targeted advertising campaigns, highlighting key product features and driving sales growth.
Purchase Order Management Specialist
Designer Brands Canada
05.2017 - 02.2018
- Managed high volumes of orders, consistently meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy throughout the process.
- Enhanced order processing efficiency by streamlining workflows and implementing best practices.
- Team Lead in training new hires on company-specific policies, procedures, systems, and best practices related to order management functions.
- Assisted in developing KPIs related to Order Management performance for better understanding of areas requiring improvement.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements through diligent record-keeping and adherence to established protocols.
Education
Fashion Arts & Business
Humber College
Toronto, ON06.2017
Skills
- Merchandising Strategy: Expertise in developing and implementing effective merchandise strategies that align with category goals and maximize gross profit
- Market Analysis: Proficient in analyzing market trends and competitive landscapes to inform product selection and assortment curation
- Vendor Management: Strong ability to evaluate vendor sources, negotiate pricing, and build long-term supplier relationships to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Experience partnering with Visual Merchandising, Allocation, Distribution, Planning, and Marketing teams to optimize processes and align forecasts
- Training and Development: Committed to mentoring junior team members and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within procurement and merchandising teams
Timeline
Associate Buyer
Designer Brands Canada
08.2022 - 04.2024
Assistant Buyer
Designer Brands Canada
03.2018 - 08.2022
Purchase Order Management Specialist
Designer Brands Canada
05.2017 - 02.2018
Fashion Arts & Business
Humber College
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