Merchandising Manager at Earnest

Commerce, California, United States

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$90,000 – $105,000Compensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

PackagingIndustries

Requirements

Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, merchandising, or procurement leadership
Proven track record in vendor negotiation, cost savings, and supplier relationship management
Experience with ERP systems required; SAP experience preferred
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

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

ProcurementVendor ManagementStrategic SourcingTeam LeadershipNegotiationCost SavingsPerformance ManagementHiringTrainingOnboardingMarket Analysis

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Merchandising Manager position?

The pay range for this role is 90-105k.

Is this Merchandising Manager role remote or on-site?

This is a full-time, on-site position located in Commerce, CA.

What key skills are required for the Merchandising Manager role?

The role requires procurement expertise, vendor management and negotiation skills, team leadership and development experience, and proficiency with ERP systems like SAP.

What is the company culture like at Ernest?

Ernest emphasizes a family-oriented environment with a proactive approach, learning proven methods of success, having fun, and values like leading with purpose, building with integrity, and growing together.

What makes a strong candidate for the Merchandising Manager position?

Strong candidates have procurement expertise, passion for cost savings and vendor strategy, leadership experience in developing teams, and the ability to optimize processes using systems like SAP.

Earnest

Provides low-interest student and personal loans

About Earnest

Earnest provides financial services focused on student loan refinancing, private student loans, and personal loans. The company uses advanced data analysis and underwriting software to assess each client's financial situation, allowing them to offer low-interest rates tailored to individual needs. Clients can select flexible repayment plans that suit their financial circumstances, making it easier to manage their debt. Unlike many competitors, Earnest continuously adjusts its rates based on market conditions to remain competitive. The goal of Earnest is to help financially responsible individuals effectively manage their educational and personal debt.

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2013Year Founded

$123.5MTotal Funding

ACQUISITIONCompany Stage

Fintech, Financial ServicesIndustries

201-500Employees