Buyer – Merchandise Planning & Procurement

About the role

The Buyer will plan and select the range, type, quality and quantity of merchandise based on customer demand, trends and store policies. Working closely with the Brand Manager and General Manager, the role ensures buying activities align with budget, seasonal strategies and brand positioning.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and drive seasonal strategies, gross margin plans and fine‑tuned assortment and investment plans.
• Create sourcing development plans and manage critical paths to ensure timely product delivery.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, freight costs and promotional support with new suppliers.
• Manage Open‑to‑Buy (OTB) in coordination with planning teams and monitor range building.
• Prepare and maintain the buying calendar and seasonal product focus plans with Marketing and Visual Merchandising.
• Analyse weekly sales performance by style, range and category, taking in‑season actions to maximise sales.
• Maintain and update TNA (Time‑Need‑Analysis) plans to align production flows.
• Conduct competitor surveys and customer focus groups to identify product gaps and inform range decisions.
• Oversee product hierarchy, seasonal phasing and in‑store visual merchandising guidelines.
• Lead product training for staff, delivering trend updates and ensuring product knowledge.
• Provide buying feedback and strategic recommendations to the General Manager.