Product Group Buying Manager Living

The organisation

Our client is part of an international group of premium department store chains. Worldwide, over 10.000 employees work at the group in order to offer customers an extraordinary shopping experience with the most exclusive brands in an inspiring ambience. Our client is known for its surprising and unique product collections, first class service and extraordinary store design. Due to this being a confidential search, we are not permitted to share any additional company details with candidates until a further stage.

The Role

The Product Group Buying Manager is, together with the Product Group Planning Manager, responsible for the Product Group ‘Living’. The range of Product Group Living includes bed linen, kitchen appliances, kitchen ware, glass ware, table ware, furniture, music and media. The Product Group Manager Buying manages a team of 4 people and reports directly to the Merchandise Director. The position will be based at the headquarters of the company in North-West Europe.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Development of a merchandise strategy with regard to current and new brands
• Development and implementation of a brand strategy and purchase & assortment planning per profit centre, based on trends competition analysis, evaluations and feedback
• Manage the Product Group Buying, by analysing and correcting revenue, margin, velocity of circulation and stock level
• Coach and support the personal development of the 4 members of the Product Group Buying team
• Prepare and supervise the implementation of the commercial programme per profit centre
• Initiate the concept development and renewal, and monitor the implementation on the shop floor
• Conclusion of framework contracts, monitor and adjust the performance of suppliers, and managing the relationships at strategic, tactical and operational level
• Evaluations with Store Management regarding renovations, concept layout, visual, commercial activities and cooperation with concessionaires
• Compose the annual plan and ensure the implementation in collaboration with the Product Group Manager Planning

Candidate profile

Must-have Background and Experience:

• At least 10-15 years of working experience, of which at least 3-5 years in a managerial buying position in the retail industry
• Minimum of 3 years retail experience in home ware products
• Experience in trendsetting, innovative environments with distinctive vision and product portfolio. Proven track with dealing with exclusive brands

Essential Personal Qualities:

• Creative and able to think out of the box
• Innovative and eye for trends
• Strong conceptual and strategic capabilities
• Able to create a vision on the Living category
• Inspirational leader and motivator to the team
• Well developed people management skills
• Sound presentation and excellent communication skills

Required Language Skills:

• Fluent in English, both oral and written

Interested?

You can apply to this position by using the form below. Please send your CV in English and include your experience in dealing with brands.