Vendor Merchandising Program Specialist - Walnut Creek

Vendor Merchandising Program Specialist - Walnut Creek Location : Location US-IL-Mattoon ID 2026-39546 Category Merchandising Type Regular Full-Time Overview About us Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding . Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion , and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store. One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee . It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support. At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally , contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve. How we reward you 401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2% Healthcare plans to support your needs Virtual doctor visits Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program 15% Associate Discount Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program Associate Assistance Program RK Cares Associate Hardship Program 24/7 Chaplaincy Services Company paid YMCA Family Membership Responsibilities What You’ll Do As a Vendor Merchandising Program Specialist you will be collaborating with the Buyer to drive all facets of product assortment, financial planning, and partnership of the vendor you are assigned with strong collaboration with their integrated cross-functional team. Work alongside a team of talented professionals who are passionate about their work and strive for excellence every day. Lead and drive impactful projects that directly contribute to the success and growth of Rural Collaborate with Buyers, Inventory Planners, and Sourcing to support driving sales, managing inventory, and achieving the financial goals of the department. Maintain vendor and product information (style, SKU, pricing UPC, ) in internal measurement unit (IMU). Set up vendor, items, and initial orders for seasonal and/or basic Monitor Purchase Orders (PO’s) for on-time shipping and fulfillment percentage and follow up with vendor as Maintain order files and execute PO Relationships Develop strong vendor Responsible for program management of co-op, vendor allowances, and promotional Oversee and manage communication with Stores and Distribution Partner with Logistics and DC for most efficient flow of product to Visit RK Stores to establish open communication and understanding store Planning/Analysis Place, track and insure complete and on-time delivery of all new store Maintain detailed current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends for your Generate and leverage reports for effective decision Optimize "in stock" on basic Identify poor performing items and categories and reduce inventory and Partner with an Inventory planner to determine sales, inventory and turn goals including preseason flow plans and projections. Advertising and Promotion Develop and submits advertising and promotional plans that deliver increases in sales and store traffic Ensure accuracy of print advertising and product in stock to 5% Collaborate with the E-Commerce Buyer to identify assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies Store Planning Provide timely direction on new SKU’s and new programs to Store Planning to develop and maintain accurate planograms Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively. Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King’s Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement. Supervisory Responsibilities None Qualifications Essential Qualities for Success At least 1-3 years of retail experience or equivalent combination of experience and Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn ERP and other Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication Excellent customer service Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a high level of attention to Strong communication and persuasive skills to negotiate and influence stakeholders at various levels in the Strong understanding of retail business Ability to effectively resolve conflicts and address challenges that may arise in Ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, adapting schedules, and plans as Adaptable in response to changing priorities, unexpected challenges, and evolving business Physical Requirements Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended Capability to lift 15 pounds Ability to navigate and access all Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic Close vision for computer-related Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. The pay range for this position is $58,000 - $72,740 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094. Options Apply for this job online Apply Share Email this job to a friend Refer Sorry the Share function is not working properly at this moment. Please refresh the page and try again later. Share on your newsfeed We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We use E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired associates. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. AI Use Notice: https://tinyurl.com/aiusageruralking Application FAQs Software Powered by ICIMS www.icims.com