Join Our Team as Head of Merchandising!
Are you ready to take the lead in driving category growth and innovation? Brakes is on the lookout for a
Head of Merchandising
to spearhead our CSE category growth and support our dynamic Chip Butty Takeaway Team. This is your chance to make a significant impact by unlocking cost efficiencies and developing a robust category plan that balances quality, service, and price. We offer a
hybrid working contract
for this role, allowing you to work flexibly while being within a commutable distance to our Ashford, Kent office. You’ll attend the office twice a week and enjoy regular travel to connect with suppliers, customers, and colleagues. Your Key Responsibilities:
Lead a talented team of merchandising professionals to achieve key priorities and outcomes. Develop and execute the overall category strategy and in-year plan to drive volume, sales, and margin growth. Champion the “better buying” initiative, negotiating competitive prices and fostering strong supplier partnerships. Support innovative range development, collaborating with suppliers to create sustainable and profitable products. Manage the end-to-end P&L, linking buying strategies with selling activation to maximize margins. Oversee local spend while collaborating with Sysco GB and international partners to enhance global results. About You:
To thrive in this role, you should have: Proven leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams and delivering results. Extensive senior-level buying experience in fast-paced food product categories, ideally within retail, foodservice, or FMCG. A customer-first mindset with an innovative approach to problem-solving. Strong commercial acumen and experience in managing large buying/P&L areas. Exceptional negotiation skills and a solid understanding of Category Management. Strong external stakeholder management skills to maximize category profitability. If you’re ambitious and eager for career growth within a progressive global organization, this is the perfect opportunity for you! What We Offer:
A competitive salary Company car or car allowance of £8,000 per annum Family private medical healthcare cover Pension scheme Generous holiday allowance of 25 days, with the option to purchase additional holidays + bank holidays Exclusive discounts on delicious food and award-winning products through our staff shop Discounts on cinema tickets, shopping, and cashback on purchases through Sodexo Recognition awards and incentives Real career opportunities within Sysco, the world’s leading foodservice business Join us and be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and growth. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!