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 130 locations across 13 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’ll do

As a Merchandising Vendor Analyst you will be conducting research, analysis, and make recommendations relating to forecasting, replenishment, and inventory management to support improvement in sales and profitability.  Key areas of responsibility include commodity price, space allocation, assortment enhances, point of sale analysis, promotional performance, and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders. This position will also be responsible for long-term strategic account planning to drive growth and match Rural King customers’ demands.  

• Responsible for analyzing sales and inventory levels of product category to determine supply chain levels with the vendor.
• Maximize inventory turns, fill rates, and service levels through improved forecasting and communication.
• Create, analyze, and communicate weekly and monthly business reports for key stakeholders.
• Assist with preseason strategy development and vendor planning.
• Recommend vendor SKU modification according to individual store performance.
• Identify underperforming areas and recommend actions to the category manager and vendor.
• Own commodity pricing and recommend pricing strategy based on current trend.
• Ability to develop multiple regional cost/ retail pricing plans to optimize sales and profitability.
• Identify missed opportunities from the previous season as it corresponds to lost sales due to how out-of-stock and over inventory impacts business.
• Provide input on optimal size pack by SKU.
• Analyze space allocation of all programs and develop strategy to optimize sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
• Responsible for analyzing and developing growth plan for ecommerce.
• Use analysis and input from regional managers and customer insights to recommend regional assortment changes.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• 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 developments.
• 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.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 3 years of retail buying, category management, or inventory planning experience, experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong understanding of retail business practices.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize and delegate tasks.
• Behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
• Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
• Close vision for computer-related activities.

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