Associate Buyer chez Aperture Pet & Life

Become part of the Aperture Team

Aperture Pet & Life is a global leader in helping saltwater and freshwater aquarists and reptile and amphibian keepers be successful through exceptional products with our banner brands of EcoTech, Neptune, AquaIllumination, AquaReady, and HelloReef sold in 50+ countries, through the industry’s leading online marketplace, Bulk Reef Supply, with one of the largest YouTube followings in the entire pet industry and our world class distribution.

Our company looks for people who are doers, thinkers and creators. Our culture thrives by putting the customer at the center. At Aperture, it’s about each person bringing their own unique skills and passion to a thriving and constantly evolving environment.

What we are looking for:

 The Associate Buyer role is responsible for supporting the buying team in sourcing, purchasing, and product management. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability in problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong negotiation skills. This role is crucial in ensuring the availability of quality products while optimizing costs, supplier relationships, category management, and inventory levels. The candidate should have a passion for the aquarium industry, possess knowledge of supply chain management principles, and have great organizational skills. 

What you'll do: 

Vendor Communication: Maintain great communication with all suppliers regarding product management, inclusive of onboarding and issues.

Market Research: Monitor the market to understand the competitive landscape, as well as identify new suppliers, products, and emerging industry trends.

Purchase Order Management: Manage purchase orders, track deliveries, and resolve any discrepancies.

Inventory Management: Assist in maintaining optimal inventory levels and reducing excess or obsolete stock.

Sample Management: Manage samples from requests, to receiving, and handoffs.

Category Management: Assortment selection, item information, mix, and pricing research.
 
Quality Control: Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure products meet specified standards. 

Team Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as sales, marketing, and logistics, to align purchasing efforts with company goals.

What You Will Work On and Who You’ll Work With  

You will be working on the merchandising team alongside talented and passionate people who have done an exceptional job helping our customers and vendors. You will play a critical role in the continued evolution of our merchandising and operations initiatives to ensure we meet the company’s needs. You will work with the rest of the merchandising team to develop your skills and engage with cross-functional teams.

What you bring 

• Thrive in a self-directed/motivated entrepreneurial environment with a desire to win
• Team player with a positive attitude
• Basic understanding of systems (Outlook, Excel)
• Strong negotiation and closing skills 
• Ability to communicate proactively with Leadership about opportunities and issues 
• Passion about aquatic life and the aquarium industry is preferred 

Role Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 2 years of related experience. 
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience working in an ERP system such as Sage (not mandatory)
• Knowledge of supply chain management principles.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• On-site office based at Aperture LLC, MN location.

Aperture is a growth company that looks for team members to grow with it. Aperture offers competitive benefits, including health insurance and 401k match, and a diverse and inclusive culture with boundless opportunities for personal and professional development.