Buying Manager - Apparel in Bury

Role Purpose

Supporting the Head of Buying in delivering the set strategy to deliver a profitable, customer-relevant, and commercially competitive product range within an agreed category/brand area. The Buying Manager builds and manages supplier relationships, and leads the day-to-day range, margin, stock, and cost decisions to achieve sales, profit and inventory KPIs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category range architecture across core, seasonal, and innovation, including clear entry and exit strategies, aligned to brand and customer objectives.
• Lead the build and delivery of compelling product ranges across core, seasonal and trend-led categories.
• Present ranges with confidence to Directors and senior stakeholders, acting as a key liaison between Heads of and wider cross-functional teams.
• Lead, manage and develop a team of varying seniority, providing clear direction, coaching and progression opportunities to drive high performance.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the customer, competitor landscape and wider market trends; leverage external networks across brands and industry contacts to inform strategy and identify new opportunities.
• Use insight and market knowledge to shape category direction and influence broader brand strategy.
• Own product selection decisions and range sign-off within delegated authority, ensuring commercial alignment.
• Drive pricing strategy, including recommendations on initial pricing and markdown proposals.
• Partner closely with trading and allocation teams to optimise availability and minimise lost sales.
• Identify and drive operational improvements within the buying function, championing efficiency, process development and commercial accuracy.
• Build strong relationships with brand partners to unlock opportunities and ensure competitive advantage in the marketplace.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Merchandising & Planning, Marketing, Ecommerce, Studio/Creative, Retail Operations and Supply Chain to ensure effective execution.
• Provide clear briefs, critical paths and timelines to support product launches, campaigns and go-live readiness.
• Identify opportunities to improve ways of working within the buying function, driving efficiency, commercial accuracy and process consistency.

Key Measures of Success (KPIs)

• Sales and gross margin vs plan
• Stock turn, weeks of cover, intake vs OTB (open-to-buy)
• Markdown rate and terminal stock
• Availability / sell-through / lost sales

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in Sports Fashion Buying at a management level
• Extensive network within the industry and well connected with strong brand relationships
• Experience leading, coaching and developing a buying team (e.g., Buyers, Senior Buyers).
• Ability to delegate effectively, set priorities and manage team capacity in a fast‑paced environment.
• Confident in representing the buying function in cross‑functional and senior stakeholder meetings.

What We Offer

• We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a workplace where every colleague is valued, respected, and empowered.
• We celebrate the diversity of our teams and strive to ensure that all colleagues regardless of background, identity, or lived experience can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
• Staff Discount on qualifying purchases across Group retail stores and online
• Discounted Gym membership
• Personal development opportunities to learn and develop at work
• Access to Apprenticeships and accredited qualifications