We are looking for a proactive and commercially minded Buyer to take ownership of our 3rd party brand portfolio. In this position, you will work closely with leading brands across the Sports and Toy industry, managing the complete buying process from supplier relationships and product selection to stock optimisation and lifecycle management.
This role plays a key part in supporting our commercial strategy by ensuring cost efficiency, strong margins, and excellent stock availability
You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the development of our own brand product ranges, including involvement in Far East sourcing and product development projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Purchasing Activities:
• Take ownership of purchasing for assigned 3rd party brands, ensuring accuracy and efficiency throughout.
• Raise purchase orders using sales trends, forecasts and historical data, while minimising out of stock situations.
• Manage the purchase order book, ensuring pricing and delivery timelines are accurate.
• Process and match invoices in line with GRNI procedures.
• Support own brand sourcing and development projects as required.
Supplier Management and Negotiation
• Build and maintain strong relationships with 3rd party brand partners, providing regular updates to suppliers and senior management.
• Assist with the onboarding of new suppliers, ensuring compliance with company terms.
• Negotiate pricing, terms and marketing contributions to maximise value and support target profit margins.
• Attend supplier meetings and UK or international trade shows as required.
Product Selection and Lifecycle:
• Source and select product ranges from 3rd party brands.
• Manage products throughout their lifecycle, from initial selection and launch through to end-of-life.
• Monitor slow-moving lines and recommend promotional or clearance actions where needed.
• Present ranges to Directors, Buyers and Sales teams for sign-off.
• Identify strong-performing products that could support own brand development.
• Ensure website product details and descriptions remain accurate and up to date.
Inventory and Data Management
• Monitor stock levels and manage inventory for all assigned suppliers.
• Maintain accurate product and supplier information within company systems.
Market Awareness and Collaboration
• Keep up to date with market trends, customer demographics and competitor activity.
• Work closely with Marketing, Sales and Finance to support product launches and promotional campaigns.
Key Performance Indicators
• Gross Margin Performance: Achieving target margins through effective negotiation.
• Stock Availability: Maintaining inventory within agreed thresholds.
• Inventory Turnover: Reducing overstock and improving stock movement.
• Product Launch Timeliness: Delivering launches to planned timelines.
• Purchase Order Accuracy: Ensuring orders are accurate and raised on time.
• Supplier On Time Delivery: Deliveries received as scheduled.
Candidate Requirements:
• Strong interest in the Sports, Toy & Leisure industry.
• Minimum 2 years’ buying or procurement experience.
• Experience with ERP systems (training will be provided).
• Degree or higher education qualification preferred.
• Commercially and financially astute with strong margin awareness.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to manage and maintain key relationships
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; proficient in Office suite.
• Adobe Creative Suite knowledge is a plus (not essential).
What We Offer:
• 23 days paid annual leave, plus public and company holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• High-spec company laptop with full Microsoft 365 access.
• Regular company social events.
• Cost price discounts on Reydon Sports product range.
• Flexible hybrid working options after training/probation.
• Free on-site parking and EV charging points.
• Supportive and vibrant team culture.
• Competitive salary and clear opportunities for career development.
* To apply, please send your CV to Head of Buying