We have an exciting opportunity for a Junior Merchandiser to join our Seasonal (Buying & Merchandising) team based in our Central Support Office in Lasswade. This is a next-stage Merchandising role where you will be responsible for maximising the sales and profit of a designated department through effective planning and trading, delivering stock, sales, and margin targets. You will manage and lead the Allocators, ensuring best practice processes are in place.
Responsibilities
1. Help deliver the KPIs for the division (sales, stock, intake buying margin, markdown, and net margin).
2. Manage the preparation of business plans – Scopes, Range reviews for the division.
3. Assist in planning the range with the Buyer, ensuring historical and future trends data and seasonal variations are considered.
4. Analyse trends, history, and performance to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
5. Ensure all orders are placed on time and are sufficient to achieve sales targets.
6. Initiate promotional activity and volume deals when needed.
7. Analyse sales records to predict buying patterns and monitor stock.
8. Work with the team to maintain the buying calendar and critical path.
9. Manage reforecasting of the WSSI and OTB to align with stock requirements.
10. Develop strong working relations with suppliers to resolve issues quickly.
11. Build relations with stores and understand customer profiles through dialogue and store visits.
12. Work with space planning to ensure planograms are executed accurately, replenishment parameters are set, and launches are timely.
Who we are looking for
1. High level of computer literacy, including Word and PowerPoint.
2. Advanced Excel capabilities.
3. Excellent organisation skills with strong attention to detail.
4. Sound understanding of supply chain processes (domestic and global).
5. Highly numerate.
6. Proactive attitude.
7. Commercial and financial thinking with excellent negotiation skills.
8. Focused on accuracy and quality.
9. Strong planning, prioritisation, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
10. Comfortable managing multiple tasks with tight deadlines.
11. Strong interpersonal skills and relationship-building across the business.
12. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
13. Ability to demonstrate our values: being one team, continuous improvement, positivity, a passion for gardens, and customer focus.
What we offer
* 33 annual leave days (pro-rata for part-time).
* Generous uncapped store discounts, 50% off in restaurants, 25% in the Garden Centre, 10% in food halls.
* Hybrid working model (office and home).
* Enhanced Group Pension Plan.
* Interest-free season ticket loans.
* Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing.
* Support through Retail Trust including confidential support, virtual GP, and counselling.
* Development via Dobbies Academy and funded courses.
* Free tea, coffee, and milk.
* Collaborative office space with wellbeing resources.
* Invitations to annual conferences and social events.
* Additional benefits: Life assurance, eye care, cycle to work scheme, dog-friendly office.
About us
Founded in 1865 by James Dobbie, Dobbies is the only garden centre retailer with stores across every UK nation. We celebrate gardening and plant passion through our products, services, and community events. Many stores feature cafes, and we support community and charity initiatives. We are committed to being a great place to work, fostering a team environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to our success.
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