Job Description
Quest Search & Selection are recruiting for a Head of Retail Buying to lead the end-to-end buying strategy across branded hardlines categories, driving product, supplier, and trading performance.
This is a high-profile leadership role working closely with the Trading Director to shape a strong branded product mix, deliver effective trading plans, and build high-performing supplier partnerships.
An exciting opportunity to drive growth within a fast-paced omnichannel retailer.
Key Responsibilities of this Head of Retail Buying role -
* Lead and define the overall buying strategy across 5–7 retail categories, aligning with wider commercial objectives
* Translate business goals into clear category strategies and trading plans
* Drive sales, margin, and growth through range optimisation, pricing, and supplier negotiations
* Lead supplier strategy, including onboarding new brands and optimising the supplier base
* Partner closely with the Merchandising team to align stock, space, and range strategies
* Lead weekly trading reviews, ensuring clear commercial accountability across performance metrics
* Protect margin through effective pricing and promotional strategies.
* Lead, develop, and performance-manage the buying team, setting clear KPIs across sales, margin, and stock
Key Requirements of this Head of Retail Buying role:
* 3–5+ years’ experience operating at Head of Buying, Buying Director, or Senior Buying Manager level
* Circa 10+ years’ total experience within retail buying
* Strong background in branded, non-fashion general merchandise (e.g. Home & Garden, DIY, Electricals, Utilities)
* Proven track record of owning trading performance and delivering category growth or turnaround
* Ideally have experience leading and developing multi-layered buying teams
* Highly commercial with strong supplier negotiation and relationship management skills
* Data-led, decisive, and comfortable operating within fast-paced, evolving environments
Benefits of this Head of Retail Buying role:
* Brand new head office ( this is a fully WIO position)
* Generous Holiday allowance
* Car Allowance
* Pension
* Bonus
* Private Medical care
If this sounds like you and you are keen to apply for this Head of Buying & have the right skills, please apply today!