Known for understanding the furniture market and competitors, to plan and deliver a strong product assortment that is right for the Cotswold Company brand and target customer. The successful candidate will be passionate about homes and interiors and will lead the NPD process.
You will manage the critical path for cabinet, working with various stakeholders (design, merchandising, marketing, retail, brand creative) to ensure NPD is launched on time and with the right marketing support.
Additionally, you will be responsible for developing strong, cross-functional relationships to deliver department and business KPI's, working closely with the Design Team and Merchandising.
Responsible for:
* Developing & nurturing the Buying Administrator
* Achieving target intake margins & sales plans for furniture categories.
* Developing strong relationships with suppliers, the direct sourcing team and cross-functional stakeholders.
* Ensuring the cabinet product portfolio drives business growth and works within the company interior design styles.
* Managing the critical path ensuring all steps are delivered on time both within the buying team and cross functional support areas
Key Duties and Responsibilities will include:
* Responsible for the development and progress of the BA through regular coaching and feedback, supporting them to be the best they can be, as well as managing performance in a professional and empathetic manner.
* Plays a crucial role in communication of the Product Strategy to internal stakeholders.
* Embraces the Product Strategy and supports this vision with key stakeholders.
* Keeps a strong awareness and understanding of the furniture market.
* Supports and leads the delivery of the relevant parts of the strategy.
* Challenges the "status quo", building product assortments that are differentiated to the market and respond to relevant customer trends. Collaborates closely with Design Team on NPD ideas and refinements.
* Demonstrates a passion for product and constantly looks for improvements in product ranges to give The Cotswold Co a competitive advantage.
* Negotiates with suppliers and briefs direct sourcing team to achieve intake margin (GP1%)
* Works closely with the Merchandiser to compile and present seasonal product strategy (including pricing strategy, promotions & sourcing) to ensure all financial KPIs are met
* Accountable for managing effective delivery of the Buying Office processes and Critical Paths.
* Upholds company policy on competition and anti-bribery laws.
* Works with Technical team to ensure product is delivered to the level expected to meet Cotswold Quality standards and any legal compliance
Essential qualities and behaviours we are looking for.
* Ability to think strategically whilst keeping sight of the detail at all stages
* Ability to achieve the right balance between creativity and commerciality
* A sound negotiator with experience dealing with large suppliers/manufacturers – including Far East sourcing and negotiation
* Strong interpersonal, influencing, communication and presentation skills
* Good analytical and problem-solving skills
* Strong commercial acumen
* Excellent time management including critical path management.
* Positive attitude, able to work as part of a team and hands-on approach.
* Represents The Cotswold Company in a professional and appropriate manner at all times
Qualifications, Skills & Experience:
Essential:
* 3-5 years experience in a retail buying environment with evidence of success
* Demonstrable experience of developing own brand product.
* Experience of managing a critical path with strong supplier/stakeholder management skills.
* Strong knowledge of the UK Homewares markets.
* Evidence of strong interpersonal skills and working well in a team.
* PC literate with strong excel and Powerpoint skills
* Educated to degree level. GSCE Maths grade 6
Whilst not essential, it would be great if you had:
* Previous experience within the furniture retail sector
* Experience of Direct Sourcing from the Far East.
* Previous experience of a mid-premium retailer.
* Worked previously for a Lifestyle Brand.
Please check the attached job description before applying, to ensure that you meet all the relevant criteria.
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are the perfect fit for this role to https://www.cotswoldco.com/
What will you receive from us?
* Competitive salary
* 25 days holiday per year + public holidays
* Company pension
* Death in Service benefit
* Medical Insurance
* Private Healthcare
* Great discounts on our products – 50% personal and 25% for family & friends
* One paid volunteering day off per year
* Cycle to work scheme
* Access to Health & Wellbeing guidance and support
* Your Birthday Day-Off!
* Ongoing development and career progression
And lots of other great things!
Who are we?
Over 25 years ago, we opened our first showroom at Bourton-on-the-Water in the heart of the Cotswolds. This very special patch of rural England taught us the importance of creating timeless, understated furniture and accessories that bring homes to life.
We live by our company values of
* Happiest together
* Always authentic
* Passion for progress
* Inspiring others
* Constantly caring
We pride ourselves on the quality of our products and customer experience, powered by our passionate people. We’re growing rapidly and are looking for great people to help us realise our big ambitions. If you are passionate about what you do, want to work for a dynamic and ambitious company, can provide all of the above and more, then we would love to hear from you.
We genuinely care about our teams and continually strive to create an inclusive and diverse workplace where we celebrate our differences, and our people can truly be themselves and feel like they belong. Our team’s wellbeing is our priority, and we pledge to live by our value of ‘Constantly Caring’ by looking after each other, being approachable and attentive to each other’s needs and provide a space where everyone feels safe to ask for help and support and receives kindness and understanding in return.
Applicants should already possess the appropriate Right to Work in the UK as The Cotswold Company does not offer sponsorships.
For more company information, follow the link https://www.cotswoldco.com/