Product Developer/Buyer Assistant

Education:Some College/Certification completedWho We Are:We're the ultimate destination in North America and beyond for head-to-toe apparel, footwear, and accessories - all at the best prices. In 1982, we started as an accessories and jewelry retailer. Today, we're on a whole new level, with 250+ stores in Canada, the USA and internationally – not to mention ardene.com and our appWe believe that fashion shouldn’t be exclusive or intimidating – it should be celebrated with youthful confidence and fearless enthusiasm. Our journey is ongoing in this new era of retail, as we focus more than ever before on customer experience and sustainable practices.We also take employee wellbeing and personal growth to heart. Our teams focus on driving initiatives in the area of mental health, diversity & inclusion, engagement and recognition. This includes our many mindfulness programs too, so our teams can create meaningful connections, lead with intention and kindness, and be their best selves at work and in their lives.Want to learn more about Life at Ardene?Check out our careers site for the latest updates & read one-on-one personal interviews with team members from across Ardene.We are currently looking for anProduct Developer/Buyer Assistant to join our Footwear and Handbag team. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Footwear and Handbags and working closely with the team, you will be responsible to:Communicate with suppliers, coordinate sample requests, negotiate costs and track production progressMaintain and update internals systems, data entry, purchase order creationManage product data, samples, and technical packsAttend fit sessions and collaborate with teams on product approvalAssist in preparing for sign offs, product and buying meetings and trade eventsMonitor sales performance and assist in making data driven decisionsConduct trend, market and competitor research to inform product developmentSupport additional projects and tasks as neededWHAT YOU’LL NEED:Completion of post-secondary education in a pertinent field of studyMinimum of two years of experience in a related roleKnowledge & experience in footwear and handbags a plusExperience working with overseas suppliersProficiency in English (both written and spoken)Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, PLMAbility to work independently and in a teamExcellent organizational, communication and negotiation skillsEnjoys working in a fast-paced and demanding environmentGROW WITH USWe’re pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people – whether it’s in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team Join our team and begin your career at one of North America’s top retail chainsArdene is an equal opportunity employer, and as such, does not discriminate in hiring or terms and conditions of employment on the basis of an individual’s race, ancestry, color, place of origin, religion, gender, gender identity, citizenship, age, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, family status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Selection decisions are solely based on job-related factors. #J-18808-Ljbffr