Job Description Template:
Retail Buying & Category Manager

Position: Retail Buying & Category Manager
Location: [City], [Region]
Position Type: Full-time
Department: Merchandising
Reports to: [Name/Role]

About Us

[Company Name] is a dynamic and customer-centric retail brand dedicated to [briefly describe your company’s mission or vision]. With a commitment to providing exceptional products and services, we are seeking an experienced and strategic-minded Retail Buying & Category Manager to lead our merchandising efforts and drive the success of our retail categories.

About the Role

As the Retail Buying & Category Manager at [Company Name], you will play a pivotal role in shaping the product assortment, purchasing strategies, and overall merchandising of retail categories. Your responsibilities include analysing market trends, negotiating with suppliers, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure a well-curated and profitable product offering.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute buying strategies to meet sales and profitability targets for assigned retail categories.
• Analyse market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and challenges.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating terms, and securing advantageous agreements.
• Collaborate with the planning and inventory teams to optimise stock levels and reduce excess inventory.
• Conduct regular product assortment reviews, making data-driven decisions to enhance category performance.
• Work closely with marketing teams to develop promotional strategies and seasonal campaigns.
• Provide leadership and direction to a team of buyers, ensuring alignment with overall merchandising goals.
• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging products, and new market opportunities.
• Monitor and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of merchandising strategies.
• Collaborate with the Director of Merchandising to contribute to overall merchandising strategy and vision.

Knowledge and Skills Needed

• Proven experience in a retail buying and category management role.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Negotiation skills and experience working with suppliers and vendors.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Familiarity with retail operations, inventory management, and merchandising principles.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software.

Person Specification

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented individual with a passion for retail merchandising and category management. The ideal candidate will possess the following attributes:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute buying and merchandising strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and inspire a team of buyers and contribute to overall merchandising goals.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing market trends and business needs.

What’s in It for You

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a reputable retail brand.
• Access to [specific perks, training or additional benefits your company provides].
• Work within a team that is passionate about [mention company values or mission].
• Employee discounts on our products/services.
• A positive and collaborative work environment.

Join our team at [Company Name] and play a crucial role in shaping the success of our retail categories. If you are a strategic and experienced Retail Buying & Category Manager, we invite you to apply and be part of our dynamic organisation.

This template can be customised to suit specific details such as location, reporting structure, and additional qualifications.