Retail & Buying

Jump to a section:

Roles and Work Environment
Skills and Training
Industry Timeline
Find Opportunities
Applying and Interviewing
Additional Industry Resources

Roles and Work Environment

There are a variety of business related functions within the fashion industry, focused on developing, managing, selling, and accounting for products and services within fashion organizations.

Examples of Retail & Buying Jobs:

Assistant Merchandiser
Buyer
Marketing Assistant
Planner
Market Analyst

Many different companies exist within Retail & Buying; from small start-ups to global brands, there is something for everyone.

Examples of companies within Retail & Buying:

Skills and Training

Attention to detail
Interest in design and fashion
Creative thinking skills
Strong written and oral communication skills
Critical thinking skills
Strong analytical thinking skills
Ability to recognize and identify new trends

Training/Education:

A bachelor’s degree is required for most entry-level positions, specifically those within a corporate setting.

Industry Timeline

Leadership development and rotational programs within retail and buying typically recruit students during the fall semester. However, other opportunities within retail and buying exist year round; therefore, there is not a set timeline.

Find Opportunities

On-Grounds

Off-Grounds

Handshake
National Retail Federation Job Board
American Purchasing Society Job Board
Have an employer in mind? Check out their website and connect with UVA alumni who work there!

Applying and Interviewing

Resumes and Cover Letters

First impressions are critical in the job search. Developing and executing the best documents possible will help to ensure that you put your best foot forward and increase the likelihood of progressing to an interview. Make sure to check out the Resumes and Cover Letters sections of the website for helpful advice and sample resumes and cover letters.

Interviewing

If you have never interviewed before, make sure to check out the Interviewing section of our website. Log on to Handshake to schedule a mock behavioral interview with a career counselor for practice. Follow-up after every interview with a thank you email or letter.