Job Summary:

Establish departmental directions and priorities in terms of merchandise procurement and presentation for core merchandise for Hudson News stores. Communicate effectively, maintain collaborative partnerships and negotiate effectively with vendors and internal colleagues.

Job Responsibilities:

• Oversee procurement of merchandise that is consistent with the Hudson News brand philosophy encompassing the businesses of travel, electronics, toys and cell phone accessories
• Develop and execute appropriate assortments both nationally and regionally for souvenirs; understanding uniqueness of markets and target customers based on location
• Work directly with Senior VP of Merchandising to select seasonal key items and develop a seasonal merchandising plan
• Work directly with Senior VP of Merchandising to select seasonal key items and develop a seasonal merchandising plan
• Shop the market for new products and trends in both souvenirs and travel
• Own and nurture vendor relationships and source new vendors
• Work with vendors on new merchandise selection and new product development, giving art direction as needed
• Work with vendors on plan-o-gram processes
• Negotiate vendor terms including freight, cost and minimums and rebate
• Manage vendor rebate program for core and souvenir businesses, ensuring timely acceptance of funds and accurate appropriation of funds by location
• Oversees Core buying staff
• Actively participates in the selection of key associates.
• Train and benchmark buyers for development and growth
• Develop visual presentation guidelines for stores through plan-o-gram processes for core and souvenir product categories
• Work with VP of Merchandising to ensure proper fixture, hardware and collateral needs for new and existing stores
• Train associates at location on Hudson News best practices of merchandising and visual presentation standards
• Assist Senior VP and VP of Merchandising on store layout and adjacencies of product for new, remodeled and existing stores

Knowledge, Skill and Ability:

• Ability to work well with people, especially within the office and over the phone.
• Excellent communication skills to present the company’s position to different management groups
• Strong supervisory skills to oversee diverse operations.
• Superior interpersonal abilities; able to interact with diverse personalities.
• Ability to perform multifaceted projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities.
• Knowledge of electronics, souvenirs, apparel, travel accessories a plus
• Must have creative merchandising skills
• Able to travel frequently
• Good computer skills a must