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- Tasks: Lead category buying for frozen foods, building supplier relationships and maximising sales.
- 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 - Fozen 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 - Fozen Foods in Deeside
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Iceland's product range and recent innovations in the frozen food sector. Understanding their unique selling points will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food retail industry, especially those with experience in category management. Attend relevant events or join online forums to gain insights and make connections that could benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends in the food retail market, particularly in frozen foods. Being able to discuss these trends and how they might impact Iceland's strategy will demonstrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your negotiation skills and supplier management experience. Think of specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully influenced outcomes, as this will be crucial for the Category Buying Manager position.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager - Fozen Foods in Deeside
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Category Buying Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as experience in food retail and supplier negotiation.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in category management and food retail. Emphasise your achievements in previous roles, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to influence at a senior level and manage supplier relationships.
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 your experience aligns with the role and how you can contribute to the company's growth.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a managerial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Iceland Food Group
✨Research Iceland's Brand and Values
Before the interview, take some time to understand Iceland's brand identity and values. Familiarise yourself with their history in frozen foods and their recent innovations in chilled and ambient categories. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and align your answers with their mission.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated with suppliers or implemented a category strategy. Be ready to discuss how you maximised sales and improved margins in those situations.
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
As a Category Buying Manager, it's crucial to have a strong understanding of the food retail landscape. Be prepared to discuss current trends, competitor activities, and consumer demands. Highlight any relevant experience you have in navigating a complex and changing environment, as this will demonstrate your capability to thrive in Iceland's fast-paced setting.
✨Emphasise Relationship-Building Skills
Building strong relationships with suppliers is key to success in this role. During the interview, share examples of how you've fostered partnerships in the past. Discuss your approach to maintaining supplier relationships and how you ensure continuity and product availability, as this will show your ability to influence at a senior level.
