Home Furnishings Buyer

Description

ABOUT THE POSITION: 

As a Luxury Furniture Buyer at Cantoni, you will play a critical role in shaping our product offerings and driving revenue growth. This specialized role demands a deep understanding of the luxury furniture market, particularly Italian design, coupled with proven experience in purchasing, inventory management, and supplier relationship management. You will be responsible for sourcing exceptional pieces, negotiating favorable terms, and collaborating with internal teams to ensure a seamless product lifecycle. If you have a keen eye for design, a strong business acumen, and a passion for luxury furniture, we encourage you to apply.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Sourcing & Product Selection: 
  • Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, both domestic and international, focusing on Italian luxury brands and emerging designers.
  • Attend international trade shows and vendor meetings to discover new products and cultivate relationships.
  • Curate a compelling selection of furniture that aligns with Cantoni's brand aesthetic, meets customer demand, and anticipates market trends.
  • Analyze market trends, competitor offerings, and customer feedback to inform product selection and identify opportunities for new product development.
• Supplier Relationship Management: 
  • Cultivate and nurture long-term, strategic relationships with key suppliers, both domestic and international.
  • Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with brands, ensuring favorable purchasing agreements and maximizing profitability.
  • Collaborate with existing brands to enhance current offerings, explore exclusive partnerships, and develop bespoke product collaborations.
• Inventory Management & Purchasing: 
  • Develop and manage optimal inventory levels for assigned product categories, balancing availability with cost-effectiveness.
  • Forecast demand and plan purchasing strategies to minimize stock outs and overstocking, maximizing sales and minimizing carrying costs.
  • Monitor inventory levels, analyze sales data, and make data-driven purchasing decisions.
  • Manage the purchasing process, including placing stock orders, special orders, and managing lead times.
• Market Analysis & Trend Forecasting: 
• Maintain a deep understanding of the luxury furniture market, including emerging design trends, competitor activities, and evolving customer preferences.
  • Analyze sales data, customer feedback, and market research to identify opportunities for new product development and optimize existing product lines.
  • Stay informed about international design trends and cultural influences that impact the luxury furniture market.
• Quality  Control & Logistics: 
  • Collaborate  with suppliers to ensure that all purchased products meet Cantoni's rigorous quality standards.
  • Work with the logistics team to ensure smooth and efficient delivery of products, managing lead times and resolving any logistical challenges.
• Collaboration  & Communication: 
  • Collaborate  closely with the Sales, Marketing, and Visual Merchandising teams to  provide product knowledge, support promotional activities, and ensure consistent brand messaging.
  • Communicate  effectively with suppliers, internal teams, and management, fostering  strong working relationships.
• Budget  Management & Cost Optimization: 
  • Develop and manage purchasing budgets for assigned product categories.
  • Identify  opportunities for cost optimization without compromising product quality or supplier relationships.
  • Track  and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to purchasing,  inventory management, and supplier performance.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Design, or a related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in purchasing and inventory management within the luxury furniture industry, with a focus on Italian brands.
• Strong understanding of Italian furniture design, manufacturing processes, and market trends.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Analytical skills to interpret sales data, market trends, and inventory metrics.
• Proficiency in inventory management systems and software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel internationally as needed.
• Passion for luxury furniture and design.