Company Overview:
We are a dynamic company specialising in retail, offering a diverse range of products including rugs, carpets, flooring and homewares with 30+ stores across the eastern seaboard. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Retail Buyer to join our team.
As this role will be the most senior person in the buying function, we are looking for a well-rounded buyer, who is both strong in Buying as well as Planning and Inventory Management.
This role offers significant growth opportunities, with the potential to transition into the group-wide buyer for all our companies.
Position Overview:
As the Senior Retail Buyer, and reporting to and working closely with the Managing Director, you will be responsible for driving the buying strategy and leading the buying function for our rugs, carpet, flooring, and homewares categories.
You will utilise your strong understanding in the end to end buying cycle, from supplier management to range planning to inventory control to optimise product assortment, improve profitability and ensure efficient inventory management.
This is a leadership position, where you will work closely with cross-functional teams to align buying strategies with the overall business goals.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the buying strategy for rugs, carpet, flooring and homewares, ensuring alignment with overall business goals and customer needs.
* Drive product ranging decisions with a keen eye for design, following trends and collaborating with suppliers and product designers to bring the best and most relevant products to market.
* Develop and implement inventory management strategies, ensuring stock levels are optimised to meet demand while minimizing excess inventory.
* Analyse sales trends, market conditions and customer feedback to make data-driven decisions and adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.
* Manage relationships with key suppliers and negotiate contracts, pricing and delivery terms to secure favourable outcomes for the company.
* Collaborate with IT and Finance teams to leverage systems and tools for better forecasting, inventory tracking and overall operational efficiency.
* Work closely with cross-functional teams including supply chain, marketing, and merchandising to align on product launches and promotions.
Qualifications:
* Proven experience as a Senior Retail Buyer, with a strong background in buying for rugs, carpets, flooring and homewares.
* Extensive experience in inventory management, forecasting and planning.
* Strong understanding of technology systems used in retail buying, inventory control and data analysis.
* Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills with suppliers and vendors.
* Strong analytical skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions to optimise product assortment and inventory levels.
* Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
* Experience in a fast-paced, multi-channel retail environment.
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