Buyer, Retail

A long-­established, fast‑growing UK retailer seeks an experienced Buyer to own category performance within their high-growth DSV (dropship/vendor-direct) model. Reporting to the Buying Manager, you will lead end‑to‑end range strategy, supplier partnerships and commercial delivery for c.£5-8m turnover categories.

• Own full P&L for assigned DSV categories: build seasonal ranges (150-300 SKUs), set OTB budgets, forecast demand and deliver sales/margin growth vs targets
• Lead supplier relationships
  : negotiate pricing/rebates/lead times with 15-25 core vendors (UK/EU/China), onboard new marketplace partners and resolve stock/quality issues
• Drive trading performance
  : weekly trade analysis, promo planning (Black Friday/Summer sales), competitor benchmarking, and markdown strategy
• Execute critical path
  : manage product lifecycle from concept/CAD through lab dips/strike-offs to launch, ensuring on‑time delivery across ecommerce/stores
• Cross‑functional leadership
  : present range reviews to directors, collaborate with merchandising/design/marketing and brief comms for 400+ stores
• 3+ years retail buying at Buyer/Assistant Buyer level
• Proven range ownership delivering sales/margin growth (£2m+ categories); DSV/marketplace experience highly advantageous
• Strong commercial acumen
  : negotiation, pricing architecture, trade analysis (Excel advanced/pivot tables) and forecasting accuracy
• Hands‑on supplier management
  :
  Far East sourcing, critical path execution, factory visits and contract agreements
• Value retail mindset with fast‑paced decision‑making and presentation skills (CEO/director level)
• Category management experience
• Ecommerce integration and promotional frameworks (Amazon/Shopify)