Calanais, United Kingdom | Posted on 04/11/2025
Unique opportunity for a Retail Buyer and Visual Merchandiser to develop a new and exciting retail offer which reflects the cultural significance of the site whilst enhancing visitor experience
ROLE OVERVIEW
About the Calanais Visitor Centre
Atthe Calanais Visitor Centre, we are committed to preserving, researching, and sharing the rich archaeological heritage of the Calanais Standing Stones. Our vision is to create an outstanding visitor experience while maintaining a deep connection between the site, the community, and the wider world. As we embark on a transformative redevelopment, we are looking for a Retail Buyer and Visual Merchandiser to develop and build a world‑class retail offer to complement and support the Visitor Centre’s aims.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, operates within a culture of respect, and creates a welcoming environment for all employees.
Role Purpose
The Calanais Visitor Centre is undergoing an ambitious £10.1 million redevelopment and will reopen in early 2026 as a world‑class, 5‑star visitor attraction and a thriving community hub. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a Retail Buyer and Visual Merchandiser to develop a new and exciting retail offer which reflects the cultural significance of the site whilst enhancing visitor experience and supporting the Centre’s commercial potential.
This is a part‑time role working 22.5 hours per week. There is a degree of flexibility in working patterns for the right candidate. The role will initially be home based, with an expectation of onsite working once the Calanais Visitor Centre is open from Spring 2026.
DirectReports: N/A
Product Sourcing and Selection
* Source and curate a unique product range reflecting the heritage, history and cultural significance of the site and location.
* Work with local artists, creatives and craftspeople to create a diverse product offer.
* Maintain and develop strong supplier relationships.
* Negotiate terms and pricing with suppliers.
Stock Management
* Purchase stock, manage inventory levels and ensure optimal stock availability and turnover.
* Manage and undertake regular stock takes as required.
Sales and Performance
* Analyse and evaluate sales data to assess performance, profitability and visitor buying behaviour.
* Report on KPIs and monitor retail profitability.
* Adhere to agreed target margins.
* Manage stock inventory efficiently.
* Work to agreed profit margin targets.
* Prepare regular sales updates, analysis and reports for the General Manager and the UnTBoard.
* Support the General Manager to develop a strong retail trading strategy for the Centre.
Visual Merchandising and Branding
* Design and develop an accessible and inclusive store layout, creating planograms in agreement with the General Manager.
* Ensure the retail offer is displayed to a high standard, maximizing sales wherever possible.
* Develop themed ranges and seasonal campaigns.
* Link the retail range to the rich heritage and landscape of the Outer Hebrides, using merchandising techniques to tell the story of local craftspeople and communities.
* Work closely with the Front‑of‑House team to ensure the team are informed and trained in the retail offer wherever necessary to improve customer service.
* Work closely with the Heritage and Comms Team to ensure product lines support exhibitions, events and the overall visitor journey.
* Work with the Heritage and Comms Team to market and promote the retail offer.
Ethics / Sustainability
* Champions sustainable and ethical buying practices.
Other
* Lead on the development of the Calanais Visitor Centre’s e-commerce offer.
* Develop, update and administer the electronic retail management system.
* Support the wider team with ad‑hoc duties such as admissions and catering support when required.
Requirements
Person Specification
Essential Skills and Experience
* Proven experience in a retail buying role, preferably within a cultural or heritage setting.
* Experience in visual merchandising and creating retail displays that drive sales.
* Strong visual design and presentation skills.
* Track record of managing and developing product ranges and meeting sales targets.
* Experience of negotiating with suppliers and managing supplier relationships.
* A strong commercial awareness and understanding of market trends within the cultural sector.
* Analytical and numerical skills with confidence in interpreting sales and stock data.
* Proficiency with buying and merchandising systems.
* Ability to forecast and plan ahead.
Desirable Skills and Experience
* Degree or equivalent experience in Business, Retail Management or a related field.
* Experience with e‑commerce.
* Knowledge of sustainability and ethical buying practices.
* Experience working across teams and departments.
Personal Attributes
* Ability to work flexibly when required.
* Passionate about retail environments and customer engagement.
* Creative and strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
* Adaptable and resilient in a fast‑paced environment.
* A collaborative team player who values inclusivity and diversity.
* Detail‑oriented and committed to delivering high‑quality work.
WHAT WE OFFER
* Competitive Salary & Benefits – Including a comprehensive benefits package.
* Fair Work Scotland Accreditation – Commitment to being a Living Wage employer and promoting Fair Work principles.
* Personal & Professional Development – Ongoing training, leadership development, and opportunities for career growth.
* Work‑Life Balance – A flexible and supportive work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing.
* Recognition & Reward – A culture that values contributions and celebrates achievements.
* An Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – A welcoming and dynamic environment where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.
Join us in shaping the future of the Calanais Visitor Centre and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
Questions?
No query is too small or not worth asking, so please get in touch with Claire Bates, General Manager for more information. Email careers@calanais.org
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