Product Development Associate Jobs in Paris, IL (NOW HIRING)

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

What You Will Learn & Do

The Buyer in Training program is a 12-18-month development pathway designed to prepare high-potential talent for a future role in merchandising. This role builds deep expertise in the core competencies of successful buying, including:

• Advanced category management
• Strategic assortment planning
• Vendor partnership development
• Margin optimization strategies
• Cross-functional collaboration with marketing and operations
• Negotiation skill development 

Key Responsibilities

Vendor & Cross-Functional Relationships

• Develop strong, effective vendor partnerships
• Collaborate with suppliers on product development and with the Global Sourcing team on private brand and product label development
• Manage vendor allowances, marketing programs, and promotional strategies
• Negotiate pricing, vendor terms, opportunity buys, and free goods
• Serve as the main point of contact for Stores and Distribution Centers
• Partner with Logistics and DC teams to optimize product flow to stores
• Work closely with Replenishment and Planning teams on product flow and order management
• Visit Rural King stores to maintain open communication and understand in-store challenges

Product Management

• Monitor market trends and competitive landscape
• Manage product pricing, sales, profit margins, and turnover to meet budgeted targets
• Identify and pursue new product opportunities that align with customer needs
• Conduct 2-3 annual category line reviews and support other category duties as assigned
• Develop seasonal merchandise assortments, pricing, and merchandising plans
• Attend product shows and visit suppliers as relevant to assigned categories

Planning & Analysis

• Place, track, and ensure timely delivery of all new store orders
• Collaborate with Inventory Planners to analyze and improve product performance
• Review recommendations and determine appropriate actions on inventory strategies
• Monitor seasonal product performance and react accordingly
• Partner with Marketing on advertising plans, promotions, and ad flyers
• Maintain current knowledge of sales, inventory, and profit trends
• Generate and interpret reports to support data-driven decisions
• Manage assortment planning and product lifecycle processes
• Help create financial plans (Open-to-Buy) aligned with company goals
• Work with Replenishment Analysts to optimize in-stock levels on core items
• Identify and address poor-performing items and reduce inventory liabilities
• Collaborate on preseason flow plans and inventory projections

Advertising & Promotion

• Develop and submit promotional plans that drive sales and store traffic
• Ensure 98.5% in-stock accuracy for print advertising items
• Collaborate with the Digital Aisle Team on assortment, placement, promotions, and marketing strategies-a key focus area

Store Planning

• Provide timely direction on new SKUs and programs to Store Planning
• Ensure planograms are accurate, timely, and appropriate to store volume and space

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead teams to drive sales, manage inventory, and meet financial goals
• Communicate a clear strategic vision, including visual merchandising strategies
• Inspire and mentor team members to grow personally and professionally
• Lead impactful projects that support Rural King's success and growth
• Influence the strategic direction of the department
• Exhibit leadership principles taught in Rural King's Thrive Leadership Program
• Exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Actively participate in training and professional development opportunities
• Provide friendly, professional support to internal and external partners
• Uphold Rural King's core values:
• People First
• Integrity
• Attitude
• Initiative
• Teamwork
• Accountability
• Continuous Improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Successfully transition into a Buyer role within 18 months

Supervisory Responsibilities

No

Essential Qualities for Success

• 2-3 years of experience in-store retail, merchandising, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong potential for growth in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and business acumen
• Proven ability to solve complex problems and make data-driven decisions
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel skills preferred
• Ability to quickly learn and use Oracle systems
• Excellent organization and attention to detail
• Skilled in negotiation, conflict resolution, and cross-functional collaboration
• Strong understanding of retail operations and best practices
• Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, discretion, and alignment with company values

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain seated or stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds periodically
• Ability to move throughout and access all areas of company facilities
• Effective verbal communication in person and through digital devices
• Close visual focus required for computer-based tasks

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

The pay range for this position is $70,000 - $90,000 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.