Buyer

About Fanatics Commerce

Fanatics Commerce stands as a global frontrunner in officially licensed sports merchandise, operating an integrated platform that handles the design, manufacturing, and delivery of licensed apparel, jerseys, headwear, and collectibles for prominent leagues, teams, and events worldwide. With more than 900 e-commerce sites and extensive omnichannel reach across digital platforms, physical venues, and retail outlets, Fanatics Commerce connects with fans in over 180 countries, powering official fan experiences for some of the most iconic sports brands.

Role Overview

The Buyer is entrusted with full responsibility for a specific product category, focusing on curating a trend-conscious assortment and enhancing category performance. This involves spearheading the product strategy, fostering vendor relationships, and managing the entire merchandise lifecycle. Reporting to the Divisional Merchandise Manager, the Buyer works closely with teams across Planning, Product Development, Site Experience, Marketing, and Supply Chain to craft an assortment that resonates both financially and emotionally with fans. Success in this role comes from applying bold leadership, leveraging data and automation, and utilizing AI-derived insights.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate across departments including Planning, Product Development, Marketing, and Supply Chain to ensure alignment between assortment strategies, financial objectives, and fan experience goals.
• Engage with leadership and vendors on negotiations, seasonal strategy formulation, and go-to-market plans.
• Mentor and support Assistant Buyers and Coordinators, encouraging accountability and fostering a culture of growth within the merchandising team.
• Maintain an assortment that balances trends with fan insights, continuously monitoring market trends, social signals, and product feedback to keep offerings relevant and unique.
• Oversee pricing, promotions, and markdown strategies based on fan demand and real-time sales data.
• Stay informed about competitors to ensure the category remains competitively compelling and differentiated.
• Continuously explore emerging product trends and fan behavior to innovate assortment and storytelling.
• Partner with Product Development to optimize brand positioning and blend exclusivity with accessibility.
• Manage vendor partnerships strategically to minimize overlap, boost efficiency, and unearth new opportunities.
• Use data analytics and AI to challenge existing assortment assumptions and fuel profitable growth strategies.
• Take full ownership of in-season management including sales, margins, inventory, and turnover with an urgent and resilient approach.
• Manage the Good/Better/Best product framework through the entire product lifecycle, from initial purchase to final markdown and clearance.
• Coordinate with Planning to monitor open-to-buy limits, receipt flow, and reforecasting to meet financial goals.
• Regularly assess and report category performance, providing data-backed recommendations to enhance profitability.

AI & Digital Expectations

• Leverage AI and technology tools to enhance operational efficiency, output quality, and overall business results.
• Incorporate digital resources and data-driven insights into decision-making processes.
• Show enthusiasm and adaptability when adopting new technological solutions and methodologies.
• Contribute actively to fostering a culture focused on innovation and ongoing improvements.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of four years' experience in merchandising or buying with proven expertise in assortment management and building vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated capability to manage category sales performance, margins, inventory, and stock turnover, making decisive in-season adjustments.
• Experience successfully negotiating pricing, terms, and exclusivity agreements with suppliers and brand partners.
• Strong analytical proficiency to convert complex data and fan insights into actionable merchandising plans.
• Knowledge of Good/Better/Best assortment strategies and comprehensive product lifecycle management.
• Experience with vertical or private brand operations and market vendor environments is advantageous.
• Passionate about product innovation and fan engagement, thriving in a fast-paced, collaborative setting.

Work Location & Schedule

This position is based primarily at the company's Jacksonville, Florida office and follows a hybrid work policy requiring in-office attendance three days per week.

Culture & Leadership Principles

The company thrives on a BOLD leadership framework focusing on building strong teams, obsessing over fan satisfaction, fostering entrepreneurial spirit, and maintaining relentless determination to overcome challenges. Candidates who are motivated to contribute in a dynamic and growth-oriented environment are encouraged to apply.