Head of Buying (Womenswear)

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About Matalan

From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about how Matalan is ever-evolving here.

We know as a team, we are stronger together - we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.

We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don't hesitate to let us know.

In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.

About the role

In line with Matalan's strategy of putting our customers at the heart of everything we do and in line with our ambition to be the 1st choice for value for Matalan families you will be accountable for both the strategic and product direction for your division. Leading your team to achieve company KPI's through the creation, selection and overseeing of new product development, whilst continually improving existing product ranges.

Strategy & KPIs

• Work in conjunction with HOM to formulate the divisional strategy ensuring alignment with the overall company strategy guidance.
• Formulate and agree the product direction for overall division
• Define a departmental seasonal range framework, that aligns to the business strategy and departmental KPIs.

Range Development

• Lead the team to identify market trends and customer needs through conducting research which informs the creation of the future product direction.
• Collaborate with the HOD and HOM to develop commercial ranges with the agreed seasonal range framework and in line with the defined strategy.
• Ensure all product ranges are built with a focus on quality, customer, style and value.

Trading

• Continually evaluate your department to make reactive informed trading and commercial decisions utilising a range of internal and external data and insight.
• Maximise the benefit of key lines working, in collaboration with Product Purchasing teams to focus on the consolidation of fabric bases.
• Encourage the use of short lead trading to maximise on sales potential.

Suppliers

• Build and maintain working relationships with key suppliers to ensure we have the very best product, delivered on time for our customers.
• Supervise trips to suppliers based in the UK, Europe and Far East
• Form strong partnerships with key suppliers to benefit from their design, sourcing & market awareness.

Leadership and ways of working:

• Lead, engage and retain colleagues to create a high performing team performance culture
• Act as a role model for personal growth whilst supporting and encouraging career development and progression.
• Ensure that your divisional critical path is adhered to by all teams to enable all key dates to be met, in line with wider company critical path.

Create an environment for the team where:

• Each colleague is clear in their role and the part they play in delivering the overall Trade strategy and KPI's.
• Everyone can develop their skills and capabilities and see opportunities for personal growth.
• Colleagues are supported and coached based on individual strengths, development needs and aspirations.
• All feel safe to challenge, opinions are heard and listened to.

About You

• Previous experience of operating at Senior Buyer/Head of Buying level ideally within a high street retailer
• Previous experience working within a fast-paced omnichannel retailer
• Exceptional negotiation and communication skills
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally.
• Strategic and analytical thinking with the ability to provide information and analysis in a clear, concise and impactful way
• Strong commercial awareness
• Ability to influence and negotiate in the workplace
• Excellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail

Benefits

In addition to competitive salaries, we also offer the below core benefits:

• 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
• Pension Scheme
• Access to a wide range of career development
• Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business

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