Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Sarah Kosuda

Charlotte,NC

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Buyer with extensive experience at Cato Corporation, excelling in vendor negotiation and market analysis. Proven track record in enhancing product assortments and optimizing inventory management. Strong analytical skills and effective communication foster collaboration across teams, driving successful purchasing strategies and achieving cost savings in competitive markets.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

Buyer- Shoes, Handbags & Belts

Cato Corporation
Charlotte , NC
08.2021 - Current
  • Supported negotiation processes to secure favorable purchasing agreements.
  • Maintained vendor relationships to ensure timely product delivery and quality standards.
  • Conducted market research to identify competitive pricing and trends in purchasing.
  • Coordinated with internal departments to fulfill product requests and specifications.
  • Monitored stock levels to prevent shortages and overstock situations.
  • Participated in negotiations with vendors concerning prices, delivery schedules, warranties and other contractual issues.
  • Requested pricing quotes from suppliers to determine best source of supply.
  • Managed inventory control systems to track stock levels, deliveries and related information.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to meet customer requirements and market demands.
  • Analyzed market trends and competitor data to identify opportunities for cost savings.
  • Researched competitors and sourced new vendors.
  • Developed and implemented strategies for minimizing the impact of price increases on key commodities.
  • Collaborated with company managers regarding product pricing, promotions and markdowns.
  • Examined, selected and purchased merchandise consistent with specification requirements.
  • Stayed abreast of market trends and anticipated consumer needs and purchasing habits.
  • Monitored product margins and managed product resales.
  • Reviewed customer feedback to brainstorm new merchandise ideas and improve existing products.

Jewelry Buyer

Cato Corporation
Charlotte, NC
08.2019 - 08.2021
  • Assisted in product selection for seasonal merchandise collections.
  • Conducted market research to identify emerging fashion trends.
  • Collaborated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of goods.
  • Supported price negotiations with suppliers for cost-effective purchasing.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss buying strategies and objectives.
  • Resolved any discrepancies between purchase orders and actual receipts of goods or services.
  • Participated in negotiations with vendors concerning prices, delivery schedules, warranties and other contractual issues.
  • Requested pricing quotes from suppliers to determine best source of supply.
  • Monitored inventory levels to ensure availability of products for customers.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to meet customer requirements and market demands.
  • Traveled monthly to Accessory market to purchase new inventory

Accessories, Intimate apparel & Belt Buyer

Cato Corporation
Charlotte, North Carolina
04.2017 - 08.2019
  • Traveled monthly to Accessory market to secure new product mix
  • Managed supplier relationships to ensure timely and accurate product deliveries.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align purchasing needs with production schedules.
  • Evaluated vendor performance to ensure compliance with quality standards and delivery timelines.
  • Resolved any discrepancies between purchase orders and actual receipts of goods or services.
  • Participated in negotiations with vendors concerning prices, delivery schedules, warranties and other contractual issues.
  • Requested pricing quotes from suppliers to determine best source of supply.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to meet customer requirements and market demands.
  • Researched competitors and sourced new vendors.
  • Evaluated quotations received from prospective suppliers to award purchase orders.
  • Conducted market research to identify potential suppliers and evaluate product quality and pricing.
  • Collaborated with company managers regarding product pricing, promotions and markdowns.

Senior Assistant Buyer- Apparel

Cato Corporation
Charlotte, North Carolina
09.2015 - 04.2017
  • Analyzed sales data to identify trends and improve product assortment strategies.
  • Coordinated product samples and inventory for promotional events and merchandising displays.
  • Assisted in negotiating purchase orders to ensure competitive pricing and quality standards.
  • Monitored stock levels and initiated replenishment orders to maintain optimal inventory flow.
  • Developed relationships with suppliers to enhance communication and streamline order processes.
  • Developed relationships with vendors to ensure timely delivery of goods.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure continuity of supply.
  • Analyzed inventory levels to identify buying opportunities and minimize stockouts.
  • Conducted market research to identify new product opportunities.
  • Managed daily activities including order entry, invoice processing, and tracking shipments.
  • Maintained records of purchases including item descriptions, prices, vendors, quantities ordered.

Assistant Buyer-Apparel

Cato Corporation
Charlotte, North Carolina
08.2013 - 09.2015
  • Assisted in selecting merchandise based on market trends and customer preferences.
  • Analyzed sales data to identify opportunities for product assortment improvements.
  • Supported the planning and execution of seasonal buying strategies and promotions.
  • Maintained accurate records of purchase orders and vendor agreements for compliance.
  • Processed purchase orders ensuring accuracy before submitting them for approval.
  • Coordinated with internal departments such as logistics, marketing, and finance when needed.
  • Assessed condition of shipped products upon arrival to meet quality standards.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Consumer Apparel And Retail Studies

University of North Carolina At Greensboro
Greensboro, NC
05-2013

Skills

  • Vendor negotiation
  • Effective communication
  • Problem solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Team collaboration
  • Vendor vetting
  • Multi-tasking strength
  • Analytical skills

Timeline

Buyer- Shoes, Handbags & Belts

Cato Corporation
08.2021 - Current

Jewelry Buyer

Cato Corporation
08.2019 - 08.2021

Accessories, Intimate apparel & Belt Buyer

Cato Corporation
04.2017 - 08.2019

Senior Assistant Buyer- Apparel

Cato Corporation
09.2015 - 04.2017

Assistant Buyer-Apparel

Cato Corporation
08.2013 - 09.2015

Bachelor of Science - Consumer Apparel And Retail Studies

University of North Carolina At Greensboro

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