Buyer

About the Company

Fanatics Commerce is a worldwide leader in officially licensed sports merchandise, running an integrated model that designs, produces, and ships apparel, jerseys, headwear, and collectibles for major leagues, teams, and events. Its commerce network spans more than 900 online stores and extends across digital, in-venue, and retail channels, serving fans in over 180 countries.

The organization operates with its BOLD leadership philosophy: building winning teams, staying fan-focused, moving with entrepreneurial urgency, and executing with persistence and accountability.

Role Summary

The Buyer will own a product category and help drive commercial performance, assortment quality, and fan impact. This position is responsible for shaping a compelling category offer, strengthening supplier relationships, and supporting end-to-end merchandising execution.

Reporting to the Divisional Merchandise Manager, the role works closely with Planning, Product Development, Site Experience, Marketing, and Supply Chain to deliver a category strategy that supports brand objectives and financial goals.

Key Responsibilities

Success in this role is measured through strong business results and the ability to turn insights into action across the category.

Fan and Market Insight

• Stay connected to fan preferences by tracking trends, social signals, and product feedback to guide category decisions.
• Watch competitors to keep the assortment relevant and differentiated.
• Build a balanced assortment that combines accessibly priced and exclusive products using data, customer insight, and performance trends.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for the category across brands, including brand equity, cost structure, and vendor capability.

Category Ownership and Execution

• Manage in-season performance for sales, margin, inventory, and inventory turns.
• Oversee the Good/Better/Best structure and the full product lifecycle from initial purchase through markdowns and exit.
• Use insights to guide pricing, promotions, and markdown actions.
• Work with Planning to align OTB, receipt flow, and in-season forecasting updates.
• Monitor category results and recommend actions that improve profitable growth.
• Support category merchandising strategy so it stays aligned with brand direction and financial targets.

Innovation and Problem Solving

• Partner with Product Development to define vertical brand assortment and improve category positioning.
• Shape the vendor mix to improve productivity, remove overlap, and strengthen product storytelling.
• Collaborate on seasonal plans, assortment reviews, and go-to-market preparation with vendors and brand partners.
• Apply creative thinking and practical business judgment to resolve category issues and improve processes.

Team and Leadership

• Act as a culture builder and active contributor within the broader Merchandising organization.
• Share knowledge, tools, and best practices across teams and divisions.
• Help onboard and coach Assistant Buyers and Coordinators.
• Negotiate costs, terms, and exclusives alongside the DMM and General Merchandise Manager.
• Develop strong vendor and brand relationships that support growth, exclusivity, and innovation.

AI and Digital Capability

• Use AI and technology to improve efficiency, quality, and business outcomes.
• Apply data and digital tools to support decision-making and performance improvement.
• Show curiosity and adaptability when adopting new technologies and new ways of working.
• Contribute to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in merchandising or buying, with demonstrated success in assortment management and supplier partnerships.
• Strong analytical ability and comfort making decisions based on data.
• Genuine interest in product, fans, and fast-moving innovation.
• Collaborative mindset with accountability and a willingness to grow.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical behavior.

Preferred Background

• Experience working with vertical/private label and market vendor businesses is a plus.

Work Environment

This position is based in New York City or Jacksonville, Florida. Travel may be required for vendor meetings, market visits, and industry events.

Education

A bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience is preferred but not mandatory.

Additional Information

The company values a BOLD mindset centered on building strong teams, staying focused on fans, moving with entrepreneurial energy, and approaching challenges with persistence and determination. Candidates who thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and growth-oriented environment are encouraged to bring their expertise to the team.