Assistant Buyer

Job Summary

To manage a defined category or sub category to continuously improve ranges and promotions and exceed sales and margin targets. Develop a category plan that supports delivery of the customer plan, market share acquisition, excellent availability + omni channel leadership.

• Develop Category Strategy with buyer to achieve Sales/Profitability targets, and maximize market share of assigned category
• Develop assortment frequently including Brands, Products & Agencies to ensure freshness and improve profitability
• Regular planogram updates with merchandising team to cover effective display principles and ensure sell out of phase out / display inventory
• Implement promo strategy & support functions to ensure business objectives are met; review effectiveness of promotion activity and update team
• Support advertising & marketing strategy; implement through marketing; review effectiveness of all activities and update category head / team
• Support Order & Replenishment process through team ensuring an optimal inventory, availability and aged are in control
• Support new Product Development process & Sourcing for Own Brands
• Follow & analyze market trends, daily marketing review of core competition to ensure competitiveness in assortment and pricing
• Work with service & support teams constantly to improve business processes and increase customer satisfaction
• Online category development and promo strategy development to ensure competitiveness with market & grow online business
• Manage selected Supplier Relationships as required, agency & non-agency. Range development , negotiate commercial terms , promotional / marketing activities , other operating incomes and follow up on timely payment of supplier receivables
• In store layout, display & space management/execution via planogram and stores visits
• Min weekly visits to core stores + competitors with actionable follow up circulated to wider team

• At least 3 - 5 years’ experience within Electronic retailing with at least w years Category Management experience
• In-depth knowledge of and experience in managing a Consumer Electronics Category
• Professional development in retail strategy / category management
• Excellent analytical skills and aptitude to draw out plans and assess accurately the market needs for the category
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent MS office skills + knowledge of SAP or Business Objects preferred
• Strong relationship building skills
• Strong negotiation skills
• Organizational leadership skills
• Attention to detail / analytical
• Superior drive + follow up

Bachelor’s Degree