Buying forms the backbone of our business and is incredibly fast-paced. By identifying trends and understanding our on-going success stories, this team ensure what customers want is on our shelves. It takes a flair for relationship building, negotiation and an analytical approach. We look for people who can deliver a variety of strategies to help drive sales and profit and who have an affinity with what we sell. Have you got what it takes?

Due to growth we have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Assistant Buyer to join our talented team based in our High Street Head office in Swindon. Reporting into the Senior Buyer this person will be responsible for growing specific categories and ranges within the overall Core Stationery category. The role requires an organised individual, capable of managing complex information and supporting the team in all areas of activity. The successful candidate will have strong relationship skills as well as being confident when it comes to presenting data and analysing the figures. Our Core Stationery Buyers are highly focused on promotions and pricing, creating attractive deals and using strategic vision. 

What you’ll do:
You will have buying responsibility for categories across our Core Stationery range and be responsible for selecting and developing profitable new ranges. You’ll use your commercial acumen to generate new ideas on how to grow YOY sales, margin and income, whilst building up strong relationships with suppliers to deliver effective and profitable plans. Working closely with the supply base to ensure in store availability is maintained, managing performance within budget.

You’ll utilise your analytical skills to deliver meaningful reports and cut through the information / detail in order to get to the real issue, whilst keeping abreast of market trends and competitor activity in a fast paced environment, to help identify new opportunities as well as changes to our existing offering. You’ll need to engage and partner with other areas of the business including Operations, Business Development, Marketing and Finance team to deliver the best results.

Who we’re looking for:
Ideally you’ll be from a within a Retail / FMCG Buying background and have autonomy and buying accountability for your own categories. We’re looking for someone who is creative, but also commercial, with a head for figures, as this area’s data-driven. Knowledge of Profit & Loss and supplier management is essential. You’ll need to have an entrepreneurial mindset and be looking for a role that has the scope to develop and make a real impact. If you’re analytical, calm and articulate, you could be the ideal fit. 

What’s in it for you? 
You’ll be at of the hub of an incredibly fast-moving function and you’ll be trusted to make decisions that benefit the business. It’s a serious responsibility – which will seriously motivate you. You’ll thrive on the freedom and the chance to use your skills and will be supported with plenty of training and development opportunities. 

What’s more, you can expect some fab rewards, including an achievable annual bonus, 24 days’ holiday (and the option to buy more), a competitive pension, the perks of your birthday off and an early finish on Fridays, and lots more!