Buyer (Apparel)

Defined by People. Driven by Ownership. Built for Growth.

At OAK + FORT, we are defined by people who lead with ownership, embrace growth, and bring passion into everything they do. Guided by collaboration, curiosity, and individuality, we foster an environment where teams are empowered to challenge themselves, support one another, and evolve alongside a modern and growing brand.

We’re seeking a people-focused, data-driven Buyer to own the end-to-end performance of assigned product categories, from assortment planning and purchasing to inventory management and business analysis. Partnering with Planning, Allocation, Marketing, Logistics, and eCommerce, you’ll execute buying strategies, optimize product performance across channels, and help deliver on our objective of “Right Product, Right Stores, Right Time.” This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and is motivated by category growth and continuous improvement.

Start Here

Start your journey with a team that values initiative, curiosity, and individuality. At OAK + FORT, we encourage self-starters to contribute with confidence, take ownership, and bring their unique perspective from day one.

As a Buyer, you will:

BUYING & PRODUCT ASSORTMENT

• Develop and execute seasonal assortment strategies aligned with financial targets and customer needs

• Build and manage a balanced merchandise mix based on trends, sales performance, and market opportunities

• Identify product gaps and introduce new product opportunities through competitive and consumer research

• Own the buying process for assigned categories, including order quantities, timing, and vendor management

• Manage purchase orders end-to-end, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery

• Partner with Planning to manage Open-to-Buy (OTB) and ensure alignment with inventory and financial goals

• Determine initial product allocation strategies across stores and channels

• Conduct regular store visits to assess assortment effectiveness and gather market feedback

REPORTING, ANALYSIS & BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

• Analyze weekly, monthly, and seasonal sales performance to identify risks and opportunities

• Provide actionable recommendations including reorders, cancellations, and business pivots

• Lead or contribute to seasonal post-mortem reviews and implement learnings into future strategies

• Maintain and ensure accuracy of reporting tools including sales reports, OTB, line plans, and SKU plans

• Monitor inventory levels, sell-through, and forecasting to optimize stock and maximize sales

• Track inbound shipments and partner with Logistics to mitigate delays and adjust strategies accordingly

• Establish and track KPIs to measure category and business performance

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

• Identify and capitalize on emerging trends and business opportunities to drive category growth

• Partner with cross-functional teams (Marketing, eCommerce, Planning, Allocation) to execute business strategies

• Support product storytelling and key investment decisions through product briefs and seasonal direction

• Monitor eCommerce performance including product availability, content accuracy, and online merchandising

PRICING & PROFITABILITY

• Develop pricing strategies aligned with margin targets, customer expectations, and market positioning

• Conduct margin analysis and manage IMU targets in partnership with Production/Planning

• Identify slow-moving inventory and execute markdown strategies to optimize sell-through

• Manage markdown lists and execution for key promotional periods

DATA MANAGEMENT & SYSTEMS

• Ensure accuracy and integrity of product data across systems (e.g., ERP, PLM)

• Maintain item setup, product attributes, and assortment tools

• Troubleshoot system issues and partner with internal/external teams to resolve discrepancies

LEADERSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT

• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members and buying assistants

• Contribute to a high-performance team culture through coaching and feedback

• Support onboarding and training of new team members as needed

OTHERS:

• Other projects and responsibilities as assigned

Belong Here

We are people powered. Through collaboration, respect, and open communication, we create an environment where individuals feel supported, valued, and connected by a shared passion for delivering elevated experiences together.

At OAK + FORT, you will:

• Join a team that values authenticity and individuality

• Work in a collaborative and supportive environment

• Be empowered to share ideas, challenge convention, and make an impact

• Build meaningful relationships with customers and teammates alike

• Contribute to a culture rooted in passion, creativity, and growth

Grow Here

We believe growth comes from challenging ourselves to go above and beyond. By embracing change, taking initiative, and continuously evolving, our teams build meaningful careers while growing alongside an ever-evolving brand.

At OAK + FORT, you will have opportunities to:

• Develop your leadership and business management skills

• Grow within a rapidly evolving retail organization

• Take on new challenges and contribute to strategic initiatives

• Learn through hands-on experience, mentorship, and ongoing development

• Build a meaningful career with a team that values ownership, growth, and innovation.

What We’re Looking For:

• 3-5 years of experience in retail buying or merchandising

• Strong analytical and financial acumen with experience managing OTB and inventory

• Proven ability to translate data into actionable insights and strategies

• Strong understanding of retail trends, customer behavior, and competitive landscape

• Experience working with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite) and reporting tools

• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities

Why You'll Love It Here

• Extremely generous employee discount starting from day one

• Health and dental benefits (for eligible full-time positions only)

• Paid vacation time off (for eligible full-time positions only)

• An opportunity be a part of our growth journey

• Access to training and development programs

• Work amongst an exceptionally talented team

OUR VALUES:

ABOVE + BEYOND

We strive for something greater than ourselves.

SELF STARTER

Entrepreneurship is the mindset that leads to endless curiosity and continuous improvement.

UNIQUELY YOU

We practice acceptance through open-mindedness and personal responsibility.

CHANGE DRIVER

We embrace change and never fear what’s next.

PEOPLE POWERED

At the core of our brand we are powered by each other.

Our Hiring Process:

We strive to provide an outstanding experience to every individual who shows interest in our organization. Our goal is to ensure that you receive clear communication, regular updates and have a dedicated recruiter to support your hiring journey with us. We believe that every candidate journey should be unique, and that honesty, integrity and transparency are carried throughout.

Once you’ve submitted your application, here is what you can expect:

• A response confirming that we have received your application.

• Your application will be reviewed by our recruitment team.

• We will respond to every application to ensure you know where you stand.

• Only candidates that are selected for an interview will be contacted directly by a recruiter or hiring manager.

• Your first connection is a 30-minute phone interview.

• You can expect one additional interviews with the hiring team.

• We will request references before moving to a final offer.

OAK + FORT is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a respectful, diverse, and unique approach to hiring individuals in the communities in which we operate – allowing each person to be their authentic selves. Our hiring commitment applies to all candidates and employees regardless of race, ethnicity, citizenship, creed, place of origin, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, family status, marital status, disability, age, and any other protected characteristic.

Requests for accommodation due to any disability or any other protected characteristic can be made at any stage of the recruitment process and during employment by contacting our People & Culture team. Employee pay will vary based on factors such as qualifications, experience, skill level, competencies and work location.