Quest Search & Selection are looking for a commercially focused Head of Category to join an established retail business. This is a hands-on leadership role with responsibility for category strategy, product development, range planning, stock, margin and supplier performance.
Key Responsibilities of this Category Lead role -
- Lead the category strategy and budget, delivering against sales, margin, cash and stock targets
- Own the product proposition and ensure ranges are commercially relevant and aligned to the customer
- Lead the sourcing, selection and development of product ranges
- Manage critical paths and ensure ranges launch on time
- Lead and develop the team, building capability, accountability and commercial focus
- Build strong relationships with suppliers and external partners
- Manage third-party warehouse and logistics relationships, including cost and service performance
- Travel to stores, suppliers and trade shows to research trends and source products
- Ensure products meet relevant certification and legislative requirements
To be successful in this Category Lead role -
- Strong experience within buying, category management or product development
- Commercially strong and confident working with sales, margin, stock and KPI data
- Experience developing and selecting product ranges
- Strong supplier management and negotiation skills
- Proven experience leading and developing a team
- Able to take ownership and become the go-to person for the category
- Confident challenging existing thinking and identifying new opportunities
- Able to make effective commercial decisions quickly
- Experience within home, lifestyle, garden, seasonal, furniture would be particularly relevant
Benefits of this Category Lead role -
- Car Allowance
- Annual performance-related bonus
- Pension
- Healthcare
- Hybrid working, typically 1–2 days per week in the office
- Regular supplier, store and trade-show exposure
If you are an experienced Head of Category, Category Manager, Senior Buyer or Buying Manager looking for a broader leadership role, please apply today!
Category Lead in Manningtree employer: Quest Search and Selection Ltd Careers
As a leading global retailer, this company offers an exceptional work environment for the EU SEO Specialist role, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Employees benefit from a range of perks including a subsidised café, gym membership, and a contributory pension scheme, all while working in a dynamic office setting that encourages professional growth and development. With a strong focus on employee well-being and a commitment to driving eCommerce success across multiple European markets, this is an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
Contact Details:
Quest Search and Selection Ltd Careers Recruitment Team
