Job Purpose:

The Category Buyer II – Bath & Body is responsible for executing the category strategy to achieve and surpass financial targets. This includes accelerating category depth, strengthening pricing strategies, and driving private label and exclusive brands to create product differentiation, innovation, and ultimately increase market share and profitability.

Job Objectives:

The key responsibilities include developing and implementing a category plan for specific product ranges, aiming to reduce the cost of goods, optimize contract terms, and increase revenue. This role also involves assuming responsibility for budget development and revenue management for the category with the necessary managerial support.

A critical aspect of the role is negotiating favorable trading terms and promotional spend (co-op). The Category Buyer II will actively cultivate and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure supplier performance and early access to new product launches.

The role requires maintaining relationships with existing suppliers and identifying new ones for future product lines. The Category Buyer II will implement a plan that achieves Clicks’ value proposition through competitive pricing and promotions, while also meeting promotional sales targets. Additionally, the role involves translating operational and financial plans into a balanced product assortment and ensuring effective visual on-shelf displays that align with customer needs.

Support for the sourcing and development of private label products and exclusive brands is essential, creating product differentiation, innovation, and brand loyalty, which will drive market share and profitability. The Category Buyer II will conduct range reviews, analyze consumer buying patterns, predict future trends, and monitor competitor activities.

Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including marketing and Clubcard teams, is key to ensuring effective delivery of the operating plan. The role also requires regular reviews of performance indicators, such as sales, margin, and promotional quantification, to keep the business updated on financial performance in relation to the market and the plan.

Desired Experience & Qualification:

Knowledge:

• Supplier relationship management

• Procurement and supply chain processes

• Retail management practices

• Market trends and competitor analysis

• Financial planning and budgeting

• Relevant legislation

• Sales and margin management

Skills:

• Strong financial and business acumen with a merchant mindset

• Negotiation skills

• Planning and organizational abilities

• Supplier relationship-building capabilities

• Proficiency in computer applications, including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

• Decision-making ability

• High attention to detail

Competencies:

• Adherence to principles and values

• Persuasion and influencing abilities

• Analytical skills

• Strong learning and research skills

• Focus on delivering results and meeting customer expectations

• Ability to follow instructions and procedures

• Entrepreneurial and commercial thinking

Experience:

• 3-5 years of category experience

Education:

• B Degree or Diploma in Retail, Purchasing Management, or a related field