Trend-Driven Associate Buyer, Data-Smart Fashion

URBN (Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie Group, Free People & Nuuly); Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

PTO

Employee discounts

Retirement savings

Job summary

Urban Outfitters in Philadelphia is seeking an Associate Buyer who blends trend sense with data fluency to build an assortment from core essentials to viral fashion. You will partner with Buying, Planning, and Design to create a collection that is both on-trend and commercially successful.

The role emphasizes research of new products, supplier collaboration, Open-to-Buy awareness, and data-driven decision making to optimize inventory, margins, and growth.

Qualifications

• Fashion or merchandising degree or equivalent experience.
• 3 years of experience in a buying or retail role preferred.
• Strong understanding of the target customer and product relevance.
• Comfort with using data and metrics (OTB, GM%, sell-off).
• Clear, professional communication with teams and vendors.
• Proactive time management to meet deadlines.
• Ownership mindset and accountability for outcomes.
• Inclusivity and commitment to diverse product offerings.

Responsibilities

• Assist in building a balanced and brand-appropriate assortment by analyzing customer feedback and market trends.
• Support development of core business categories while incorporating fashion newness and test silhouettes.
• Help maintain the appropriate mix of private label and branded products across categories.
• Contribute to monthly shop planning and seasonal line reviews.
• Stay informed on fashion trends, styles, and cultural shifts through industry publications, fashion shows, and social media.
• Provide input on product selection with a strong sense of style and customer relevance.
• Monitor competitive landscape and identify emerging trends to support assortment decisions.
• Collaborate with Design to develop relevant and fashion-forward styles.
• Assist in applying trend insights to product development, including web expansion opportunities.
• Partner with Production to balance quality, lead times, and price/value.
• Communicate professionally with vendors to support product development and delivery timelines.
• Assist in negotiating pricing, delivery, and terms under the guidance of the Buyer.
• Help identify and onboard new suppliers and brands to enhance the product mix.
• Support Open to Buy (OTB) management by maintaining flow sheets and item plans.
• Monitor business performance and assist in executing reorders, cancellations, and markdowns.
• Understand seasonality and contribute to inventory planning and profitability strategies.
• Analyze sales velocity, returns, markdowns, and customer behavior to inform buying decisions.
• Participate in in-season and post-season hindsight reviews to evaluate performance and identify opportunities.
• Use data to support product recommendations and assortment adjustments.
• Work cross-functionally with Planning, Design, and Production teams to ensure alignment on product and business goals.
• Communicate clearly and professionally across teams and with external partners.

Education

Fashion or merchandising degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Urban Outfitters in Philadelphia is seeking an Associate Buyer who blends trend sense with data fluency to build an assortment from core essentials to viral fashion. You will partner with Buying, Planning, and Design to create a collection that is both on-trend and commercially successful.

The role emphasizes research of new products, supplier collaboration, Open-to-Buy awareness, and data-driven decision making to optimize inventory, margins, and growth.