Product Merchant, Lawn & Garden

Location:  Chicago, IL 60631 Status:  Full Time, Employee Job Category:  Marketing/Product Career Level:  Manager (Manager/Supervisor of Staff) Education Level:  Bachelor's Degree Job Description Job ID: 875Position Description: Challenging work. Good people. Commitment to success. These three short phrases define the True Value Company. It’s that simple. True Value Company is one of the world’s largest member-owned cooperatives. As a wholesaler with a strong retail focus, we provide products and programs to 5,600 True Value retailers worldwide with our 3,000 employees around the country. Under the supervision of the Global Product Merchant, is responsible for managing the day to day business for their assigned sub-set of categories to drive sales and profitability for both the coop and it’s members Position Requirements:Responsibilities include:Manage Expectations of Membership by: Responding to and ensure that member inquiries and problems are resolved in a timely and satisfactory manner. Visit members stores as needed to better understand market opportunities. Communicating and setting expectations for new and existing products, programs and pricing. Attend Semi-annual marketManage People within their department by: Managing and evaluating the Merchandising Assistants Category / Financial Management Negotiate, select implement and sell merchandise programs and products to maximize sales and profits for True Value Members. Understand and achieve annual category financial objectives. Coordinate an advertising strategy with the GPM that will achieve department growth plans. Evaluate wholesale and retail competitors’ products, prices and strategies. Recommend changes where appropriate to maintain or increase market share mix. Work with Global Souring to source and/or develop the best possible products and programs. Manage Internal Process’ Manage Member Market process, vendor selection, layout and forms. Coordinate the execution of merchandising programs with internal support functions (i.e. logistics, distribution, marketing, inventory management, etc.) Oversee the implementation of new skus and new vendors for their sub set of categories Manage Vendor Community Assist in resolving vendor supply chain issues Visit manufacturers as needed to better understand their products, programs, capabilities, and opportunities. Develop a two-way communication strategy to stay informed on current market trends and future developments. Attend Industry shows where appropriate.Leadership Behaviors Creates a compelling vision that inspires commitment and energizes his/her associates. Drives change by leading associates through change and helping them understand how to improve the business. Leverages partnerships by effectively driving results through partnerships with others. Develops great leaders by successfully developing associates to their fullest potential Leads courageously by giving sound business reasons for making tough decisions and stands firmly behind them. Demonstrates Superior Judgment by grasping complex issues, making excellent decisions with limited data, and working under pressure with tight deadlines.Position Attributes: Bachelor's degree or equivalent industry experience At least 4 years in a retail related and / or merchandising organization. Previous retail related experience required Ability to grow to a GPM level position.The True Value Company provides an environment that will encourage you to embark on a career that will stimulate your mind, while satisfying your need to work in an open, enjoyable atmosphere. Our salary and benefits package is competitive. For immediate consideration, please apply online.EOE:M/F/D/V.Additional Information: Travel Percentage: 10%