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- Tasks: Lead category buying for chilled products and maximise sales through strategic supplier relationships.
- Company: Iceland, a leading innovative food retailer in the UK with a strong employee-focused culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, store discounts, and subsidised onsite amenities.
- 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 are essential.
- 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 in Deeside employer: Iceland
Contact Detail:
Iceland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager in Deeside
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Iceland’s latest innovations and trends in food retail. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for our brand and how you can contribute to our growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Buying Manager, you'll need to influence suppliers and stakeholders. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager 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. Share specific examples of how you've made an impact in previous roles.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Category Buying Manager role. Highlight relevant experiences that showcase your ability to build relationships with suppliers and implement successful category strategies. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills to our needs!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and fluff. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and skills at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Iceland family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Iceland
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the chilled food category. Understand current trends, key suppliers, and what sets Iceland apart from competitors. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Build Relationships with Suppliers
Think about how you can leverage your past experiences to build strong supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated terms or introduced new sources in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to influence at a senior level.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss challenges you've faced in a fast-paced retail environment. Think of specific instances where you had to act quickly and decisively. This will illustrate your capability to thrive in Iceland's dynamic setting and your readiness to tackle future challenges.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Food Retail
Let your enthusiasm for the food retail industry shine through. Share why you love working in this sector and how you keep up with consumer demands and competitor activities. This passion will resonate with the interviewers and align with Iceland's values.
