Merchandising Manager

Key Responsibilities:

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, coach, and support a team of merchandisers (buyers), ensuring alignment with company goals and individual growth.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment through regular meetings, performance reviews, and ongoing support.
• Hire, train, and onboard new merchandisers with a focus on long-term development and cultural fit.

Vendor Management & Strategic Sourcing

• Build and maintain strong relationships with top suppliers, acting as the primary point of contact for negotiations and performance management.
• Evaluate vendor opportunities, market shifts, and new product introductions to position Ernest as a strategic and value-driven buyer.
• Lead cost-saving initiatives through improved pricing, favorable terms, and optimized purchasing strategies and coach your team to do the same.
• Stay one step ahead of market shifts, supplier trends, and product innovations so our team always buys smart.
• Train your team on negotiation strategies, cost-saving tactics, and how to think like strategic buyers, not just order placers.

Inventory Oversight & Financial Impact

• Oversee inventory levels, particularly for custom or client-specific items, ensuring alignment with company targets and turnover goals.
• Review inventory and purchasing activity regularly to maintain optimal supply levels and reduce excess.
• Collaborate with the sales, credit, and operations teams to address low gross profit orders and identify opportunities to enhance margins.

Process Management & Systems Optimization

• Use our ERP system (SAP) to track, analyze, and manage all purchasing and inventory functions with accuracy and efficiency.
• Identify and implement improvements in purchasing procedures, systems, and reporting to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Stay informed on industry trends, cost changes, supplier developments, and product innovations that may impact the business.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, merchandising, or procurement leadership.
• Proven track record in vendor negotiation, cost savings, and supplier relationship management.
• Experience with ERP systems required; SAP experience preferred.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor a team while managing multiple priorities.
• Analytical, detail-oriented, and comfortable making data-informed decisions that align with company goals.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Why Join Ernest?

For over 80 years, Ernest has been built on a culture of connection, respect, and doing right by our people. When you join us, you become part of a team that values your experience, your perspective, and your drive to make a difference. Our employees often say it feels like a second home, and we work hard to keep it that way.

Ernest is a nationwide company, but did you know that our humble roots started in a Los Angeles garage? Brothers Ernie and Charles Wilson founded the company in 1946 with a dedication to customized service. Even after decades of delivering great packaging to our customers, that commitment has never changed. We always find the best solution to fit our customers’ needs, even if we have to invent it!