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- Tasks: Lead category strategy, build supplier relationships, and maximise sales in chilled foods.
- Company: Iceland is a leading UK food retailer known for innovation and award-winning products.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, store discounts, free parking, and subsidised dining with a Michelin Star Chef.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing company that values integrity and offers career development opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience in food retail buying and strong negotiation skills are essential.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting growth phase with future career challenges.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Think of Iceland and you think of frozen food And rightly so its been the driving force behind our brand for over 50 years. But did you know that were also the most innovative food retailer in the UK operating across chilled and ambient categories too, and the winner of multiple awards for our products, service and the way we treat our employees?
Were looking for an ambitious Category Buying Manager to work in our Head Office in Deeside on a full time and permanent basis.
At Iceland have the freedom and autonomy to succeed. From the outset, youll think quickly and act decisively. Youll build strong relationships with suppliers, implement the category strategy to maximise sales and improve margins. The credibility to influence at a very senior level in retail is vital. Youll be able to act as a role model for others in the team, ensuring that we keep one step ahead of retail trends, competitor activities and consumer demands.
A proven track record in delivering and maintaining a distinct point of difference across your category is essential. Buyers with experience working in Food Retail would have the ideal knowledge required for this role. You must have the experience to review suppliers, introduce new sources and negotiate trading terms. Your Buying experience will give you the knowledge to oversee supply, ensure continuity and product availability. A background in a complex, constantly changing food retail environment would be ideal.
Icelands one of the fastest-moving, fastest growing food retailers around and weve now set our sights on expanding our new concept stores even further. This growth will create lots of exciting new challenges and future career opportunities but no matter how much we grow, we will always be a business with integrity and a brand that customers trust
Make a difference to your career, we expect a lot but youll get a lot back in return. We will help you grow and develop your career and give you the freedom to show that you really care.
Alongside this we can offer you:
- A very competitive salary with an excellent benefits package
- 25 days holiday, plus 8 days bank holiday
- 15% store discount, 30% club individual restaurant discount
- Free parking
- Highly subsidised restaurant onsite with our own Michelin Star Chef!
- Subsidised Costa onsite
- Discounted gym membership
- Charity fundraising events
- Educational sponsorship
- Enhanced maternity/paternity leave
- Long service awards
- Reward & recognition
Category Buying Manager - Chilled Foods in Deeside employer: Iceland Food Group
Contact Detail:
Iceland Food Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager - Chilled Foods in Deeside
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Iceland's product range, especially in the chilled foods category. Understanding their current offerings and any recent innovations will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food retail industry, particularly those who have experience in buying roles. Engaging with them on platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends in food retail and consumer behaviour. Being able to discuss these trends during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and understanding of the market.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to negotiate and build supplier relationships. Highlighting specific achievements will illustrate your capability to excel in the Category Buying Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager - Chilled Foods in Deeside
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in food retail and category management. Focus on achievements that demonstrate your ability to influence at a senior level and your track record in delivering results.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the food retail industry and your understanding of Iceland's brand values. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed categories and built supplier relationships.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills such as negotiation, strategic thinking, and trend analysis in your application. These are crucial for the Category Buying Manager role and will help you stand out.
Showcase Your Knowledge of Trends: Demonstrate your awareness of current trends in the chilled foods market. Discuss how you can leverage this knowledge to benefit Iceland and contribute to their growth.
How to prepare for a job interview at Iceland Food Group
✨Research Iceland's Product Range
Before the interview, make sure to familiarise yourself with Iceland's product offerings, especially in the chilled foods category. Understanding their unique selling points and recent innovations will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the brand.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle supplier negotiations. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or implemented category strategies to maximise sales.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Category Buying Manager, you'll need to analyse market trends and consumer demands. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform your buying decisions in previous roles, and how you plan to apply this at Iceland.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Iceland values candidates who can act as role models within their teams. Share examples of how you've led teams or influenced senior stakeholders in your previous positions, highlighting your ability to drive change and maintain a competitive edge.
