Buying Manager

Bailey Finch Associates are delighted to assist our client with the vacancy of Buying Manager.

The role will involve:

To manage, develop, and source Furniture to meet customers’ requirements. To drive the performance of the categories through development of the ranges, achievement of budgeted sales and % GP targets and the negotiation of prices, rebates and other trading terms.

Determine the product and supplier strategy including the setting of the annual category plan

Work with Merchandising and Finance in the setting of sales, margin and stock budgets.

Manage the Range Plan in conjunction with Merchandising and Format to ensure that sales are optimised from the available space and stores are kept fully appraised of changes.

Manage the planning and introduction of new products ensuring cross functional support and high profile launch to Retail and the business
Work cross-functionally to drive furniture as a priority growth category within the business

Maintain a thorough understanding of the markets.

Manage the Buying Team to ensure their contribution is optimised and their development needs are met.

Ensure supplier relationships are managed effectively and that capabilities and contingencies are continuously reviewed. Support Merchandising to ensure that lead times and terms of supply are met.

In conjunction with the Quality function ensure that suppliers meet our needs in respect of product quality, due diligence, ethics and environment.

In conjunction with Marketing, Format and Retail, ensure effective promotional planning and that all products within the categories are appropriately displayed and supported with the necessary POP.

In conjunction with the Merchandising, ensure that excess stocks are managed effectively.

Ensure robust processes and controls and continually review and develop. 

Regular Board and Senior Management level communication of plans, results, issues and proposed actions.

The successful candidate must have passion for product including design and development skills
Strong negotiation skills
Excellent communication and influencing skills
Results and performance driven individual who takes ownership of tasks
The ability to manage and motivate employees and ensure they are engaged
Good time management skills with excellent organisational and prioritisation skills
High level of commitment and the determination to succeed
Excellent numeracy skills
High level of commercial acumen
PC literate with strong working knowledge of MS Excel, Word and PowerPoint.