Sr. Specialist-Print Buyer

Have you noticed that Payless is a little more 'hip' and a little more 'cool' these days? Now is an exciting time to join Payless, our shoes and accessories are getting rave reviews.

Payless ShoeSource, Inc., the nation's largest footwear retailer, is taking a significant step in a new direction to deliver inspiring, fun, fashionable shoes at affordable prices to our Customers. Payless will be unveiling a new logo this summer, revamping retail stores and rolling out the first-ever payless designer collection which debuted at New York Fashion Week in February. With more than 27,000 employees and 4,600 retail stores throughout North, Central and South America and its e-store Payless.com(R), Payless puts more feet in the latest footwear fashions than any other specialty retailer.

Payless Corporate headquarters is located in Topeka, KS (residence in Topeka, Lawrence or Kansas City areas). We know our associates are our most valuable resource, so we offer comprehensive compensation and benefits packages designed to improve the quality of life for associates and help them meet their responsibilities at home and work.

If you think you know Payless ShoeSource, think again. Learn more about our inspiring career opportunities by visiting our website at www.payless.com.

We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to workforce diversity.

Purpose:
A skilled and competent Print Buyer with the ability to supervise the production of printed marketing materials.

Major Responsibilities:
Supervise the buying of printed marketing materials including in-store poster kits, POP fixtures and FSIs.
Work closely with creative director and graphic designs to advise on projects including paper selection, color use, etc.
Work closely with internal business partners in project planning and advising on potential efficiencies and cost savings opportunities.
Develop print specifications and matrixes.
Obtain price estimates and award jobs to outside vendors.
Approve color and retouching through in-house pre-press team.
Attend onsite presschecks and approvals.
Liaise with print production supervisor on the kitting, packing and shipping of printed marketing materials.
Supervise print projects to deliver on time and within budget.
REQUIREMENTS
Position Requirements:
Advanced knowledge of all print methods including web, sheetfed, screenprint, flexo and digital required.
Knowledge of paper grades and weights required.
Experience with onsite presschecks and approvals required.
Experience in 4-color process work required.
Must be analytical for the purposes of forecasting, keeping track of each project's costs versus budget and analyzing vendor quotes.
Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills required.
Excellent interpersonal skills with a high level of initiative and motivation.
Strong written/verbal skills.
Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to work under tight deadlines and to effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Must have great attention to detail.
Travel required.

Education and Technical Knowledge Requirements:
Minimum 3-5 years print buying experience in 4-color process work.
Expert level skills in Excel, Word and Notes required.
User level skills in PeopleSoft preferred.