1. Sharon Flores Fashion 100

2.  Identify consumer relevant product opportunities through market research Strong analytical skills Understanding of consumer and retail merchandising, assortment and purchasing strategies and tactics In depth understanding of retail customers Strong knowledge of product design and assortment building Demonstrated success in creating commercially viable and profitable product designs Proficiency in cost estimating, pricing methods (including markup, perceived value, target return and price tiers) and product line pricing Demonstrated knowledge of 'concept to floor' merchandising and product development in order to determine product mix and product assortments Familiarity with the breadth and depth of competitor product lines and strategies Skill at modeling and fostering teamwork, with the flexibility to work effectively in roles as a team leader or a team member Strong problem solving abilities Exceptional written and communication skills Willingness to challenge practices and commit to common goals Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously Understanding the need to keep internal partners in the loop

3.  Bachelor's degree (10+ years of combined college education and work experience may be substituted for a degree)  Minimum 7 years of progressive design/merchandising experience within an apparel or housewares manufacturer, retailer or fashion company

4.  Develop a clear, integrated and deliverable Strategic Product Plan that is based on the external market and that will drive growth, profitability and brand health  Develop seasonal line plans and concepts  Manage all line release activities  Accountability for coordinating internal cross-functional activities and deliverables to deliver product that meets requirements  Direct the execution of a clear and measurable Annual Product Development Plan which is market responsive and functionally integrated in planning and execution  Responsibility for driving the go-to-market process to create market leading products that support the retail experience and marketing programs

5.  Be friendly,  communicate well with people.  Hard working

6.  Median annual earnings of purchasing managers were $53,030 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $38,770 and $71,480 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $93,040 a year.  Median annual earnings for purchasing agents and buyers, farm products were $37,560 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $29,150 and $52,600 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,550, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $80,320 a year.  Median annual earnings for wholesale and retail buyers, except farm products were $37,200 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $27,480 and $51,560 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,570, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $70,750 a year. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of wholesale and retail buyers, except farm products in 2000 were as follows:  Groceries and related products $41,020 Electrical goods $38,220 Machinery, equipment, and supplies $35,170 Miscellaneous shopping goods stores $33,730 Grocery stores $29,650

7.  About 43 percent are employed in wholesale trade or manufacturing establishments.  Some firms prefer to promote existing employees to these positions, while others recruit and train college graduates.  Employment is projected to have little or no job growth.  Opportunities should be best for those with a college degree