Buying Manager - Mens Footwear and Accessories

Job Title - Buying Manager Reporting To Head of Buying / Buying Director Location – Bury Head Office About JD Group This is JD. Born in 1981. Built for Now. At JD, wedon’tjust sell sneakers and outdoor gear, we set trends, break boundaries, and build communities. Whetheryou'reon the shop floor, behind the scenes, or driving innovation, every role here plays a part in shaping the future of our industry. We’refast-paced, fearless, and unapologetically ambitious. We celebrateauthenticity, thrive on collaboration, and never stop pushing forward, ifyou’reready to bring your energy, ideas, and personality to a team that values them. This is your moment. This is JD. 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