Buyer presso Risd

JOB SUMMARY:

Working closely with the Senior Buyer, the Buyer is responsible for identifying, sourcing, purchasing and supporting RISD Retail. The Buyer maintains vendor relationships, conducts product research, and monitors inventory to ensure optimal stock levels. This position also collaborates with the retail team to enhance merchandising strategies across retail stores and e-commerce platforms, drive revenue, and ensure the alignment of RISD Retail’s offerings with institutional branding and community needs. In addition to procurement duties, the Buyer actively engages with customers, supports visual merchandising, and assists with daily operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

Product Sourcing & Procurement: 

• Identify, source, and purchase course supplies, clothing, gifts, and convenience items that align with customer preferences, seasonal trends, and RISD’s brand identity. Responsibilities include:

• Collect information to inform vendor negotiations regarding pricing, terms and conditions.

• Conduct competitive market research to identify new brands, emerging products, and innovative retail trends.

• Work with suppliers to ensure timely delivery and replenishment of in-demand products.

• Make product purchase recommendations for Senior Buyer.

Merchandising & Product Assortment: 

• Curate a balanced and diverse product selection that appeals to RISD’s student, faculty, and visitor base. Responsibilities include:

• Assist in planning and executing seasonal product launches, promotional campaigns, and limited-edition merchandise.

• Ensure that products align with RISD’s artistic and design-oriented aesthetic while also meeting practical needs.

• Collaborate with the marketing team to develop signage, displays, and digital promotions that enhance product visibility and sales.

Vendor & Supplier Relations: 

• Maintain strong vendor relationships to secure favorable pricing, payment terms, and product exclusives. Responsibilities include:

• Research and onboard local, minority-owned, and sustainable vendors to support RISD’s commitment to diversity and ethical sourcing.

• Regularly meet with vendors to discuss new products, sales performance, and promotional opportunities.

• Schedule vendor demos, trunk shows, and pop-up events to engage the RISD community.

• Stay up-to-date on ethical sourcing, fair trade, and eco-friendly product alternatives.

• Ensure procurement processes align with legal, ethical, and institutional policies.

Inventory & Stock Management: 

• Monitor stock levels for course supplies, clothing, gifts, and convenience items to ensure an optimal balance between supply and demand. Responsibilities include:

• Use inventory systems to track product performance, slow-moving stock, and reorder needs.

• Assist in maintaining accurate product data across all retail platforms, including pricing, descriptions, and availability.

• Work with warehouse/receiving teams to verify shipments, inspect goods, and manage returns or damages.

Pricing & Sales Data and Reporting:

• Monitor competitor pricing and make recommendations about adjusting pricing strategies accordingly.

• As needed, track sales data and customer preferences to determine which products should be reordered, discounted, or discontinued.

Retail Operations & Customer Service Support: 

• Provide floor coverage and customer assistance as needed, offering product knowledge and recommendations.

• Assist in receiving merchandise, pricing, and stocking new inventory.

• Support visual merchandising efforts to create engaging product displays that drive sales.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: 

• Work closely with faculty, student groups, alumni and administrative teams to select Alumni collection, branded merchandise and school spirit apparel.

• Regularly attends Crits, opening and campus events.

• Contribute to promoting new product arrivals and special promotions via various marketing platforms, including print, social media and with MARCOM.

• Attend industry trade shows, vendor fairs, and buying markets to stay updated on trends and supplier innovations.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Assist Retail team with inventory management and reconciliation for all areas. Assist year-end inventory and reporting.

• Cross-train in all retail areas to provide flexible support when necessary.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS/SPECIFICATIONS 

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

Associate’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum two (2) years of procurement/purchasing experience 

• An understanding of procurement best practices, vendor management, and supply chain operations

• Ability to identify supplies/products which represent a diverse group of constituents with varying needs/interests.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of procurement systems and cloud-based inventory management systems.

• Ability to interpret and prioritize requests for information and follow up and to redirect or escalate as needed.

• Requires sound judgment and the ability to act in the best interest of the RISD Store

• Excellent organizational skills, interpersonal skills, and verbal and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team in a high impact, deadline-oriented environment.

• A positive attitude and the ability to relate well to diverse populations and to help foster a community environment.

PREFERRED:

• Experience in buying for academic environments

• Experience in buying branded merchandise

Union:

No

Work Schedule:

35 hours per week

12 months per year

Employment Status:

Full-time; Exempt

Grade:

530EX

Work Modality:

On-site Required

Documents Needed to Apply:

• Resume (Required)

• Cover Letter (Required)

Salary Grade Structure

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please upload all required documents.

The successful candidate will be required to meet our pre-employment background screening requirements.

RISD recognizes diversity and inclusivity as fundamental to its learning community and integral to an art and design education. We welcome candidates whose experience has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. RISD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.