Department Store Buyer
デパートしいれぶいん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Clerical Occupations
- Middle : Sales and Marketing Clerical Occupations
- Minor : Other Sales and Marketing Clerical Occupations
Summary
A job in the purchasing department of a department store that analyzes best-sellers and market trends, negotiates with suppliers to select and order products, and supports optimal sales planning.
Description
Department store buyers analyze customer needs and market trends, select and order products that align with sales strategies. They negotiate prices, delivery dates, and quantities with manufacturers and wholesalers, and develop seasonal plans. They manage sales performance and inventory levels, analyze sales data to minimize unsold stock while maintaining optimal product assortments, and revise purchasing plans as needed. They collaborate with MDs in the department and sales planning teams to promote product deployments that boost customer purchasing interest.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of the e-commerce market and diversification of consumer needs, there will be increasing demand for talent with digital skills and expertise in data-driven product selection and omni-channel strategies.
Personality Traits
Adaptable / Detail-oriented / Good at negotiation / Proactive / Trend-sensitive
Work Style
Business trips / Flex time / Office work / Partial remote work / Team-based
Career Path
Assistant Buyer → Buyer → Senior Buyer → MD (Merchandiser) → Purchasing Manager
Required Skills
Budget Management / Excel (Advanced) / Market Research Analysis / Negotiation Skills / Purchasing and Inventory Management
Recommended Skills
BI Tools / English (for overseas manufacturers) / Marketing Knowledge / Presentation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Essential for analyzing best-sellers and market data to create purchasing plans. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because ordering errors or pricing mistakes directly impact sales. |
| Communication Skills | Essential due to frequent negotiations and coordination with suppliers and internal stakeholders. |
| Planning & Organization | Important for systematically developing seasonal purchasing plans and promotion initiatives. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Low physical demands as it is mainly desk work. |
Related Qualifications
- Retail Marketing (Salesperson) Certification
Aliases
- Buyer
- Department Store Buyer
Related Jobs
- Buyer
- MD (Merchandiser)
- Purchasing Staff