At WHSmith our people are at the heart of everything we do. They are the ones that go the extra mile for our customers, the ones that enable our growth. That’s why our Commercial team is passionate about creating an environment where people can think creatively, act boldly and do their very best work.
We’re now looking for a Buyer to work in our Chilled and Snacking team. This is a high-impact role where you’ll take full ownership of a complex, high-volume category, with the autonomy to shape strategy and deliver commercial success across all WHSmith formats.
As Buyer, you’ll be the key decision‑maker for your category, driving sales, profitability, and innovation. You’ll work closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to build a compelling, customer‑led snacking offer that performs across our travel estate.
What you will be doing
- Own and deliver sales and profit targets for your category
- Curate the optimal customer‑focused assortment to meet commercial goals
- Develop and deliver a robust category and trade plan aligned to the wider business strategy
- Create a strong pipeline of value‑driving initiatives to accelerate growth
- Lead supplier negotiations and manage long‑term supplier relationships
- Define pricing and promotional strategies
- Sourcing and developing products and suppliers in line with category strategy
- Deliver projects and trials with cross‑functional teams
- Contribute to the annual budget and forecasting process
What we are looking for
- Previous buying or relevant commercial experience
- Strong commercial acumen with excellent numerical and analytical skills
- Confident negotiation skills and supplier management experience
- The ability to influence and collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders
- Resilience and adaptability in a fast‑paced environment
- A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset
- Strong IT skills, including Excel and PowerPoint
- A collaborative team player with a passion for delivering results
How we reward our teams
- Hybrid Working Model from home and in the office
- 4pm Friday Finish
- Flexible Working
- 25 Days holiday, plus your Birthday off, plus Bank Holidays with an opportunity to buy extra days holiday
- Family Friendly Leave
- Company Pension scheme
- Annual Bonus based on company and personal performance
- Competitive Salary and Car Allowance
- Private Medical
- Cycle to work scheme
At WHSmith, we’re all about creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone can be themselves and do their best. No matter your background, age, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, race or ethnicity, marital status, religion, sex, sexual orientation or anything else that makes you, you—you’re welcome here.
Buyer - Chilled employer: WHSmith
WHSmith is an excellent employer that fosters a dynamic work culture, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the fast-paced retail environment. With a hybrid working model, generous vacation policy, and performance-based bonuses, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while also having ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
