Outdoor Fashion Buyer (Apparel and Footwear)

Company Overview:

A distinguished Japanese subsidiary of one of Japan's major general trading companies is expanding its operations in South Korea. This company, as an exclusive distributor of a leading American outdoor brand, is well-known for its excellence in product quality and service. With plans to extend its market reach by introducing additional apparel and footwear brands, the company leverages a robust distribution network including major department stores, fashion malls, franchise dealerships, and both online and wholesale channels.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage footwear and apparel buying activities, working directly with American brand holders and a Japanese distributor of the American outdoor brand.
• Select products that align with market demands and the company's strategic goals.
• Communicate effectively with brand holders to negotiate terms and manage purchasing costs.
• Handle post-purchase settlements and cost management to ensure profitability.
• Oversee logistics including shipment, customs clearance, and domestic delivery to streamline the supply chain and ensure timely availability of products.

Key Qualifications:

• Proficient in Excel and PowerPoint to manage data and create effective presentations.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in merchandise buying, ideally within the apparel and footwear sectors.
• Business-level English proficiency to ensure effective communication, particularly in negotiations and daily correspondence via email.
• A bachelors degree in a relevant field, demonstrating a solid educational background.
• Experience with outdoor brands, providing an understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities in this niche market.
• A keen sense of market trends and consumer preferences in apparel and footwear.
• Strong communication skills, essential for building and maintaining relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.