We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer to join our Food team (Buying & Merchandising) based in our Central Support Office in Lasswade on a 12-month fixed-term basis. You will be responsible for sourcing commercial ranges and unique products that attract customers to shop at Dobbies, as well as achieving sales and margin targets. You will coach, lead, and challenge the team to deliver a product strategy aligned with company objectives and customer profiles. As a leader, you will make buying decisions and be accountable to the Executive Team for your area.
Role Responsibilities
1. Understand trends and metrics to select products that meet customer expectations.
2. Develop the supply base to achieve a competitive advantage.
3. Collaborate with Merchandising to optimize supply chain and stock availability.
4. Analyze consumer buying patterns and forecast future trends.
5. Identify risks to sales and profit, and suggest mitigation strategies.
6. Review performance indicators such as sales and discounts regularly.
7. Manage stock plans collaboratively with the merchandising team.
8. Present new ranges to senior management.
9. Maintain supplier relationships to ensure stock and cash flow management.
10. Negotiate terms and manage Joint Business Plans with key suppliers.
11. Source new suppliers and maintain existing relationships.
12. Implement vendor management, allocation, and pricing strategies.
13. Attend trade fairs to select new products.
14. Manage team budgets, performance, and development.
15. Mentor and train junior team members.
16. Oversee daily team operations, coaching, and performance delivery.
17. Create a positive work environment, recognizing achievements and inspiring the team.
18. Provide honest and constructive feedback as an effective coach.
Who We Are Looking For
1. Strong analytical skills.
2. Creative with an eye for trends and opportunities.
3. Excellent negotiation, networking, and influencing skills.
4. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
5. Driven and determined.
6. Numerical and IT proficient.
7. Passionate about retail.
8. Empathetic, organized, and empowering leader.
9. Demonstrates our values: teamwork, continuous improvement, positivity, and a love for gardens.
What We Offer
1. 33 days of annual leave (pro-rata for part-time).
2. Generous store discounts and restaurant offers.
3. Hybrid working model.
4. Enhanced Group Pension Plan.
5. Season ticket loans.
6. Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing.
7. Support through Retail Trust, including counselling and health services.
8. Development opportunities via Dobbies Academy and funded courses.
9. Free tea, coffee, and milk.
10. Collaborative office space with wellbeing resources.
11. Invites to company events and social gatherings.
About Us
Founded in 1865, Dobbies is the only garden centre retailer with stores across every UK nation. We celebrate garden living and community engagement through events, charity partnerships, and a focus on quality products and customer experience. We are committed to being a great place to work, encouraging our colleagues to thrive and succeed.
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