Horticulture and Garden Sundries Buyer Job Summary: A pivotal role within the J. Parkers group, our Horticulture and Garden Sundries Buyer is crucial to our ongoing strategy to grow and develop our garden centre brand. The Buyer will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing stock to be sold in our three garden centres. Main purpose/scope of the role: Reporting to the Head Buyer the Horticulture and Garden Sundries Buyer will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing stock which will inspire and enchant our customers and enhance the trading success of our brand and three garden centres. Key responsibilities: Source and purchase stock at the best available price, therefore driving sales and profit Predict and meet the trading demands of the garden centre sector Be aware of seasonal and future trends within the horticulture industry Have a good knowledge of customer buying patterns Maintain a detailed understanding of sales performance, stock availability and best-selling lines Work closely with the Garden Centre Managers (GCMs) to make sure we have the right stock at the right time, maximising profit and minimising stockholding and wastage Supporting our GCMs to ensure our colleagues have a good knowledge of the products we sell and their features so they are confident in selling to our customers Regularly meet with GCMs on-site to discuss sales, stocks, floor layouts and seasonal moves Contribute to weekly leadership meetings and ad hoc strategy meetings Work with merchandising colleagues to make sure sales areas are inspiring and logical for customers to shop and that the highest footfall areas are well stocked with our best-selling products Have an active network of suppliers and growers, conducting on-site visits where necessary Work closely with buying colleagues in our mail order channel sharing ideas, suppliers and information on trends Utilise resources and suppliers within the mail order channel to make the most of buying power and savings in cost prices Work closely with supplier reps to learn about new and best-selling products, while keeping a firm stance on what products best suit our brand and customers Attend industry trade shows Capture and review stock-related customer feedback Assist the GCMs in the management of sales areas and stock room spaces to ensure we keep tabs on what stock we have and minimise stock holding Personal Specification: This role requires: Experience in retail buying Keen negotiating skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Well-organised and good at time management Ability to quickly build rapport and maintain trusting relationships with customers, suppliers and colleagues Team player whos confident in working well with multiple teams Have an approachable, positive and proactive manner with a growth mindset Computer and systems literate and good knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office applications Full UK driving license and willingness to regularly visit our garden centre stores Desirable, but not mandatory skills include: Experience in buying for a garden centre retailer Understanding of the garden centre industrys seasonality and trends Knowledge of plants and gardening supplies