Baney Promoted to Omni Buyer at Bloomingdale’s, NYC
After just three short years with Bloomingdale’s in New York City, Emily Baney, SFLS class of 2003, was promoted to omni buyer of girls in October, 2018.
“I’ve always had an interest in fashion and a goal of having my own boutique,” Baney shared. “During college, I found that the merchandising field came naturally to me. The major also allowed me to take courses in art and design along with business and marketing, which was a great balance.”
Shortly after graduating from the University of Nebraska—Lincoln, Baney took a job in Lincoln at Von Maur. She quickly worked her way into a department manager position and, within a few months, received the opportunity to work as a buyer for the company in Davenport, IA. After a short stint as the women’s shoes buyer, she transitioned into the role of buyer of girls 7-16 apparel.
In June of 2015, Baney landed a job with Bloomingdale’s and moved to New York City. She has served in several roles during her time with the company, including senior assistant buyer for the outlet stores, senior assistant buyer of men’s dress furnishings (dress shirts and ties), and omni buyer of girls, which encompasses all sizes of apparel and accessories.
“Ultimately, working as a buyer for a department store allows me to run my business area as if it were my own store,” Baney shared. “In a typical week, I meet with one or two different vendors to choose what product to buy for stores and online for the upcoming season. I work with large name brands all the way down to manufacturers that produce our private brand—Aqua. The rest of my week is split between analyzing business and working with our marketing teams, store teams, etc.”
While the job sometimes requires long hours, Baney’s passion for the industry makes it easy for her to enjoy her work.
“My favorite part of being a Buyer is seeing the effects of my decisions on the business,” Baney said, “I love walking into our stores and feeling proud of what the assortment looks like. I also enjoy seeing the business flourish. Finally, I am able to manage a team of assistant buyers and help them develop the skills they need to eventually manage their own businesses.”
In addition to staying busy at work, Baney gets involved at her local church—Our Saviour New York—during her free time.
“SFLS provided a great foundation academically, socially, and in my faith,” she shared. “Having great role models in all of my teachers, who started as friends and became like family, as well as an education that tied back to faith has stayed with me into adulthood. It’s a constant reminder to stay grounded in faith, no matter what else is happening around me.”
Baney participates in a variety of activities through her church, ranging from Bible studies to trivia nights and picnics in the park.
Outside of church, she is active in the NYC chapter of the UNL alumni association and enjoys exploring the city.
“There’s always something to do here,” Baney said. “I’ve spent free time trying new restaurants, going to street fairs, walking in Central Park, seeing live music, going to a show, and the list goes on and on.”
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