Buyer - Homewares

Buyer - Homewares | Industry Leading Benefits| Hybrid Working 2/3

Zachary Daniels Recruitment are delighted to be partnered with Yorkshire's leading multi-channel retailer on the recruitment of a Buyer position, on a 12 month fixed term contract.

Our client has a global footprint with sales all over the globe and even in the current climate they continue to grow! They are lucky enough that they possess one of the best cultures and working environments in the North with a very strong buying & merchandising function already in place.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Buyer to join a leading brand, with the responsibility of developing and delivering a product range that meets customer requirements while upholding the core values and attributes of the brand. The Buyer will also manage a product team to achieve sales, margin, and stock targets within budget. This position is a fixed-term contract to cover maternity leave for up to 12 months.

The role is hybrid, with a requirement to work at least two days per week in the office, with the remainder of the time working from home.

Key Responsibilities:

• The Buyer will manage and develop the supply base to support the execution of a sourcing strategy that balances margin maximisation with the need for flexibility to respond to shifting customer and market demands.
• The Buyer will ensure the optimisation of profit and service while minimising overstocks.
• Develop and manage product ranges based on customer demand and profitability as the Buyer.
• Propose and develop seasonal product strategies, taking into account product performance, customer requirements, marketing plans, and emerging market trends, in the role of the Buyer.
• Collaborate with the Merchandiser and Quality Assurance (QA) teams to establish, review, and gain approval for the department's strategy and targets to achieve sales and profit goals.
• Work closely with Merchandising, Design, Marketing, and E-Commerce teams to establish a critical path and ensure key milestones are met.
• Collaborate with the Merchandiser to set sales targets through range reviews and Open to Buy, and agree on range plans, stock flow, margins, and prices to ensure smooth stock delivery.
• The Buyer will maintain strong market knowledge, keeping up to date with competitor ranges and strategies, ensuring a commercially viable range that aligns with the target customer profile.
• Ensure, in collaboration with QA, that all products meet legal, safety, and quality standards, while ensuring timely order placement within the agreed critical path.
• As a product expert, the Buyer will provide recommendations to the Marketing and E-Commerce teams on which products should feature in editorial content, emails, and promotions.
• Set objectives for direct reports, manage their performance, and provide advice and guidance to support their development within their roles.
• Uphold a commitment to achieving positive customer outcomes at all times.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable UK regulations, company policies, and FCA Conduct Rules.
• Demonstrate behaviours in line with the company's core values.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Experience in developing own-buy product ranges.
• At least three years of proven experience at a Buyer level within a retail environment.
• Essential experience in buying homewares, with a preference for experience in home textiles.
• Strong range planning and range building skills.
• A solid understanding of commercial aspects, including the ability to assess product cost and selling prices, predict sales potential, and understand customer buying behaviour.
• In-depth knowledge of related products and competitor offerings, with the ability to research and evaluate market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally to form and execute marketing plans that drive KPIs and meet customer demands.
• GCSE Maths and English grade C or above (or equivalent).
• Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A flexible, positive attitude and approach to work.
• Strong influencing skills, both internally and with external customers.
• Proven negotiation skills, including experience managing a supplier base and sourcing new suppliers.
• Effective people management and development skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing customer requirements and rapid changes in the business environment.
• Willingness to commute to Bradford city centre.
• Availability for business travel, including potential overnight stays, both within the UK and abroad.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience in supplier liaison, including travel within the UK or internationally.
• Extensive knowledge of working with brands.
• Experience in managing the workloads of more junior colleagues.
• Experience in trade analysis and reporting.
• Proven ability to devise and implement strategies, with experience in sign-offs.
• Ability to support and act as a delegate for senior colleagues.

This role offers an exciting challenge for a Buyer with a passion for developing product ranges and contributing to the growth of a dynamic brand.

Apply today to find out more!

BBBH32550