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- Tasks: Lead category buying for chilled products and build strong supplier relationships.
- Company: Iceland, an award-winning innovative food retailer in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, store discounts, and subsidised onsite restaurant.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing company and make a real impact in the food retail industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in food retail buying and strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Think of Iceland and you think of frozen food. And rightly so, it's been the driving force behind our brand for over 50 years. But did you know that we're 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?
We're looking for an ambitious Category Buying Manager (Chilled) to work in our Head Office in Deeside on a full time and permanent basis. At Iceland, you have the freedom and autonomy to succeed. From the outset, you'll think quickly and act decisively. You'll 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.
You’ll 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.
Iceland's one of the fastest-moving, fastest growing food retailers around and we've 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 you'll 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 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 in Deeside
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work at Iceland or similar retailers. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Iceland’s chilled category and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who gets their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how you’ve influenced senior-level decisions in your past roles. Use specific examples that highlight your buying experience and how you’ve tackled challenges in food retail.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Iceland team and ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager - Chilled in Deeside
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food Retail: When you're writing your application, let your love for food retail shine through! We want to see how your experience aligns with our innovative approach at Iceland, especially in the chilled category. Make it personal and relatable!
Highlight Your Buying Experience: Make sure to detail your buying experience in food retail. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate a proven track record in managing suppliers and negotiating terms. Use specific examples to show us what you’ve achieved!
Be Authentic and Personable: We value authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share your career aspirations and how you see yourself contributing to our team. We want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our amazing benefits there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Iceland Food Group
✨Know Your Chilled Categories
Dive deep into the chilled food sector before your interview. Familiarise yourself with current trends, popular products, and Iceland's unique offerings. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion and understanding of the category, making you stand out.
✨Build Supplier Relationships
Think about how you can leverage supplier relationships in your previous roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated terms or introduced new sources. This will show your potential employer that you have the experience needed to thrive in this role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss how you've implemented category strategies in the past. Highlight your ability to think quickly and act decisively, as these are key traits for a Category Buying Manager. Use concrete examples to illustrate your strategic mindset.
✨Emphasise Adaptability
Iceland is known for its fast-paced environment, so be ready to talk about how you've adapted to change in previous roles. Share stories that showcase your ability to stay ahead of retail trends and consumer demands, proving that you're the right fit for their dynamic team.
