* Fixed remuneration (salary band as per Enterprise Agreement)
* Based at Phillip Island Nature Parks, Phillip Island
About the Company
Phillip Island Nature Parks is a leading conservation and sustainable tourism organisation, proudly managing over 1,980 hectares of reserves, wetlands and woodlands, including areas of deep cultural significance for Aboriginal communities. We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace where diversity is valued, growth is encouraged, and everyone is empowered to contribute.
Our team works across a variety of disciplines united by a shared commitment to conservation, exceptional visitor experiences, and meaningful partnerships. Join us and contribute to an organisation that is both purpose-driven and people-focused.
About the Role
As Senior Buyer, you'll lead the end-to-end buying, inventory and product development function for a dynamic, multi-site retail operation turning over $5M+ annually. This is a highly visible role that blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution; perfect for a commercially savvy buyer who cares deeply about sustainability, storytelling and team leadership.
You will shape compelling product ranges, guide a talented team, and ensure our retail offer enhances every visitor's experience while aligning with our conservation and community values.
In this role, you will:
* Lead buying, merchandise planning and inventory strategy across four retail sites
* Manage, coach and develop Purchasing, Inventory and Warehouse team members
* Drive category performance, margins and stock efficiency using data and insights
* Source and develop products aligned to sustainable and ethical procurement principles
* Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate favourable commercial terms
* Own buying budgets, forecasts, promotions, stocktakes and reporting
* Partner closely with Tourism Managers to align buying, merchandising and sales
* Visit retail sites regularly to spot trends, opportunities and operational improvements
* Attend gift and buying fairs to keep ranges fresh, relevant and commercially strong
For further details on this role, please review the Position Description – Senior Buyer
About You
You're a confident retail leader who loves seeing strategy come to life in-store and enjoys empowering others to do their best work.
You'll bring:
* Proven experience in retail buying and inventory leadership
* Strong people-management and coaching capability
* Commercial acumen with a sharp eye for trends and margins
* High-level data, forecasting and inventory systems skills
* Experience with (or strong interest in) sustainable procurement
* Excellent relationship-building, communication and negotiation skills
How to Apply
We will be reviewing applications as they come in so don't delay in applying! Please submit your CV and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria. Application close on 24th May 2026
Required Skills & Experience
* Proven experience in retail buying, merchandise planning and inventory management
* Demonstrated success leading and developing teams in a buying, inventory or warehouse environmentStrong commercial acumen, with the ability to drive margin, sell-through and stock efficiency
* Experience managing budgets, forecasting and supplier negotiations
* High-level capability in inventory systems, reporting and data analysis
* Track record of building effective supplier and stakeholder relationships
* Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution in a fast-paced environment
* Excellent communication and influencing skills, with confidence working across multiple sites
* Experience with, or strong commitment to, sustainable and ethical procurement practices
Desirable (but not essential):
* Experience in tourism, attractions, gifting or lifestyle retail
* Exposure to multi-site retail operations
* Familiarity with buying fairs and product development cycles
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