Head of Buying & Merchandising

Bailey Finch Associates are delighted to assist our client with the vacancy of Head of Buying and Merchandising.

The role will involve:

The Head of Category will have full P&L accountability for the ranges of products within their remit .They will be responsible for delivering sustainable profit growth of their categories.
Strong commercial and financial acumen will be required to develop and deliver range sales and stock plans .
Head of Category must be focussed on understanding the importance of relationship building across the suppler base and internally within the business, managing key stakeholders in order to deliver ranges and promotions which exceed customer’s expectations.  
 
The Main Accountabilities Are:
Financial
Set, manage and deliver category financial targets in conjunction with Commercial Director and finance.
Lead monthly forecasts of sales and inventory and the development of supplier, range and stock strategies to meet financial goals
Manage process for open to buy forecasts
Own day to day delivery of sales and margin to forecast levels
Strategic
Develop and deliver cross functional range, channel and promotional strategies building on customer proposition and broad commercial plan
Accountable for delivery of twice yearly range reviews and delivery of plans to agreed metrics
Range change through regular review of product/store grading cascade and £ space optimisation  
Develop global sourcing plans in conjunction with supplier and range strategies
Agree and manage supplier strategy
Leverage team and supplier resources to maximize revenue and profitability
Day to day deliverables
Accountable for accuracy of all line level product sales forecasts and in bound product flow management in conjunction with supply chain
Manage periodic range performance meetings across team to agreed metrics
Maintain stock levels to support customer promise
Effective management and disposal of distressed and clearance stock, optimising financial returns.
Maintenance of clear, competitive Range and price hierarchy
Regular review of competitor and customer dynamics
Ensure supply base meets all corporate criteria with regard to ethical sourcing, product quality and minimum service levels
Lead team through critical negotiations across diverse and complex supplier base, specifically with regard to trading terms, and conditions of trade, cost price  and product specification
Through effective stakeholder management ensure team’s agenda and priorities are communicated and delivered across all Dreams operating divisions, specifically retail, marketing, distribution and on line
Develop robust, compelling and differentiated marketing and promotional plans for categories in conjunction with marketing and suppliers
Weekly 121 meeting with direct reports
Annual objectives setting to reflect individual and corporate targets
Twice yearly performance reviews for team members
Talent mapping and team development
Performance management
Direct team Recruitment

Principal Skills & Attributes Required:

Proven negotiator
Global sourcing experience
Solid retail background within a multi channel retailer
Commercial and strategic thought processes
Analytical and considered approach
Strong people management skills
The ability to build relationships at all levels and influence