Assistant Merchant - (Woven & Sweaters)

Overview

Forever 21 has been a leader in the global fast fashion market since its humble beginnings in Downtown LA. Today we operate 350+ stores across the USA and a robust e-commerce platform. Forever 21 is a powerhouse. Our mission is to inspire individual self-expression through amazing fashion and our DNA is rooted in Inclusivity, Customer-Centricity, and Accessibility.

With a renewed focus on the customer experience, we offer high-style designs and fashion basics with compelling values and a dynamic store environment. Whether we're collaborating with your favorite brands, and influencers or setting trends - we are always striving to make Forever 21 your go-to fashion destination to shop, work, and play!

Join us - tomorrow is yours to define… Forever!

The Assistant Merchant will support the Merchant, Sr. Merchant or Buying Manager to ensure that inventory receipt goals are met. The Assistant Merchant will maintain the flow of production by coordinating constantly with external vendors and cross-functional departments, making sure that production deadlines are met and samples are up to standard.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with Buyers, Production, Design, Planners, Logistics, Accounting, Quality control, Receiving departments, and vendors to ensure production requirements are followed

• Communicate with vendors any revisions or changes to garments expressed by the Merchants

• Assists with the preparation process for the negotiation of product pricing with vendors and management

• Maintain the Time and Action calendar to track the status of each garment Communicate any changes to existing orders to the Purchase Order department

• Work to consistently obtain Pre-Production and Top of Production samples on time

• Compile and upload testing forms, COCD forms, packing instructions, and Certificates of Compliance onto Web PDM

• Maintain a library of best-selling styles, materials, and colors

• Manage the data and files for production matters

• Organize selling, pull reports for Merchants and ensure that all Purchase Order deliveries are made to the appropriate department

Qualifications

• BFA or BA preferred

• Must have at least 1 year of exposure in a specialty retail environment; 1 year of buying experience preferred

• Must possess basic knowledge of production, product development, specifically in the fashion retail industry

• Knowledge of Web PDM preferred

• Must have exceptional organizational skills

• Must be proactive, detail oriented, and possess the ability to meet tight deadlines

• Must have excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

• Must possess basic Microsoft Word and Excel skills

Why we think you'll love it here…

At Forever 21, we foster an inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong. In addition to our comprehensive benefits package which you can find at https://sparcbenefits.com/Candidate-Benefits-Highlights, you will unlock competitive Paid Time Off for personal, sick, and vacation time each year, enjoy most national holidays (paid), enjoy a flexible work schedule with our current hybrid policy for most corporate roles, free onsite parking and gym access in DTLA as well as eligibility to participate in our annual bonus incentive program to name a few.

We actively encourage our current and future employees to:

Unleash your style - where your self-expression and creativity inspire others. Employees can take advantage of our relaxed corporate dress code showing up in a way that makes them feel comfortable, stylish, and unique!

Embrace your individuality - we value the diverse perspectives, talents, and backgrounds that make each person one-of-a-kind. We celebrate what makes you exceptional!

Own your Journey- Where personal & professional growth goes hand in hand. Embrace your journey, learn, adapt, and make a lasting impact. At Forever 21, you will have the opportunity to grow your retail career from stores to corporate and across our portfolio of brands under our parent, Sparc Group LLC!

ADDITIONAL DATA:

The salary range for this position is $22.18 - $24.00 per hour. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to position offered and work experience. In addition to your salary, Forever 21, and its affiliated brands, offers a benefits package, including 401(k) plan, overtime pay, flexible work schedule and a generous employee discount program (all benefits are based on eligibility). Additional information regarding the benefits for this position can be found at https://sparcbenefits.com/Candidate-Benefits-Highlights.

SPARC Group LLC is an equal-opportunity employer. We value a culture of inclusion and diversity within our workforce, and are committed to maintaining a workplace free from prohibited employment conduct, including discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, domestic partner status, civil partnership, status as a covered veteran, status in the Uniformed Services of the United States, citizenship and any other characteristic protected by law. We are also committed to the full inclusion of qualified individuals in the job application and interview process.

Employees are expected to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), and applicable state disability laws, it is the policy of SPARC to provide a reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. If a reasonable accommodation is required to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our Human Resources department.