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- Tasks: Lead category strategies to boost sales and profitability in a dynamic retail environment.
- Company: Well-established UK retailer with a strong high-street presence.
- Benefits: 34 days holiday, bonus, life insurance, and pension.
- Why this job: Drive growth and innovation in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
- Qualifications: Experienced in buying or category management with strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to manage a small team and collaborate across departments.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Quest Search & Selection is currently recruiting for a Buying Lead - Electrical & Home Improvement who will lead the category strategies to drive sales and profitability across both stores and online channels. You will be responsible for building branded, innovative, trend-led product ranges, managing supplier relationships to maximise margin, and identifying new growth opportunities. This is an exciting opportunity to drive growth in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial retail environment with a well-established UK retailer known for its strong high-street presence online & omnichannel business.
Key Responsibilities:
- Own full P&L accountability for the category, driving sales, margin and cash performance.
- Own and execute category strategies that drive sales, profit, and growth.
- Translate market trends, customer insight, and trading data into actionable plans.
- Develop innovative, on-trend, and branded product ranges that excite customers.
- Continually refresh ranges using social media, competitor activity, and market trends.
- Build and manage a supplier base, negotiating costs, terms, and support to maximise margin.
- Identify and unlock new opportunities while proactively addressing underperformance.
- Line manage and coach a small team of Buyers and Assistants to achieve targets.
- Collaborate with Merchandising, Retail, and Online teams to optimise stock, space, and availability.
Key Requirements:
- Experienced Senior Buyer or Category management with a strong background in branded and non-fashion categories, including Outdoor, Furniture, Electrical, DIY, Tech, Hardware, Home & Seasonal, and Household.
- Proven commercial and analytical expertise, skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and margin management.
- Track record as a strong negotiator, building lasting supplier partnerships and driving profitability.
- Deep understanding of product lifecycle management within seasonal and fast-moving categories.
- Commercially driven, resilient, and comfortable operating in fast-paced, high-visibility environments.
Benefits:
- New head office location (please note this is 5 days a week in their south London head office).
- Close to tube station or subsidised parking.
- 34 days Holiday (inclusive if bank holidays).
- Bonus.
- Life insurance and pension.
If this sounds like you and you are keen to apply for this Buying Lead - Electricals & Home today!
Buying Lead - Electrical & Home Improvement employer: Quest Search and Selection
Contact Detail:
Quest Search and Selection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Lead - Electrical & Home Improvement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their market and can bring fresh ideas to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Buying Lead, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate with suppliers. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Buying Lead - Electrical & Home Improvement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buying Lead role. Highlight your experience in category management and any relevant achievements that showcase your skills in driving sales and profitability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've built innovative product ranges or managed supplier relationships in the past.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong commercial and analytical expertise, be sure to mention any experience you have with budgeting, forecasting, and margin management. Numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Quest Search and Selection
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Buying Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your commercial acumen. Brush up on your P&L management skills and be ready to discuss specific figures from your past roles. Show how you've driven sales and margin improvements with concrete examples.
✨Market Trends Mastery
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in electrical and home improvement sectors. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve translated market insights into successful product ranges. This shows you’re not just reactive but proactive in identifying growth opportunities.
✨Supplier Relationship Savvy
Highlight your negotiation skills and past experiences managing supplier relationships. Think of specific instances where you maximised margins or built strong partnerships. This will illustrate your ability to drive profitability through collaboration.
✨Team Leadership Insights
Since you'll be managing a small team, be ready to share your leadership style and how you've coached others to achieve targets. Discuss any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, showcasing your resilience in a fast-paced environment.