Merchandising Supervisor

Location: Knightdale, NC | Full-Time | On-Site
Leadership Role | Pay range: 90-105k 

At Ernest, our merchandising team does more than manage purchasing, they shape the foundation of how we serve our customers. We’re searching for a Merchandising Supervisor to lead our team of buyers (we call them merchandisers because, well, they do a lot more than just purchase). 

This on-site leadership role is ideal for someone who brings procurement expertise, a focus on cost savings, and a passion for developing people and processes. You’ll be at the center of our supply strategy, helping us deliver smarter solutions to our clients while guiding a strong and capable team. If you're obsessed with vendor strategy, and have a sixth sense for identifying savings opportunities, we want to meet you.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, merchandising, and procurement leadership.

• Proven track record in vendor negotiation, cost savings, and supplier relationship management.

• Experience with ERP systems required; SAP experience is a plus.

• 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.