Buying Specialist

The Senior Buyer manages a structured buying team across one or more categories, combining hands-on commercial execution with team coordination responsibilities. This role ensures buying processes are executed to standard, mentors Senior and Junior Buyers, and acts as the operational buying lead during peak planning cycles, building the bridge between strategic buying direction and day-to-day team execution.Team Buying OperationsCoordinate and oversee daily buying activities across the category team.Ensure OTB processes, PO timelines, and range file standards are maintained across the team.Act as the first point of escalation for Buyers and Junior Buyers on operational buying matters.Own team buying calendars and ensure seasonal planning milestones are met.Represent the buying team in cross-functional launch and planning meetings.Category Assortment & Range OversightReview and validate range plans built by Buyers before escalation to the Buying Manager.Ensure consistency of range architecture, pricing logic, and assortment balance across the team.Monitor SKU-level performance and flag category risks for Buying Manager review.Oversee product lifecycle processes, including entry planning and exit management.Vendor & Commercial ManagementSupport senior vendor negotiations and ensure the team follows commercial negotiation standards.Maintain vendor performance tracking across the team's supplier base.Review and approve routine POs and buying commitments within delegated authority.Escalate vendor performance issues and commercial risks to the Buying Manager.Team Development & CoachingProvide day-to-day coaching, guidance, and performance feedback to Buyers and Junior Buyers.Onboard new junior team members and support their early development.Facilitate team training on buying tools, OTB processes, and commercial standards.Identify development gaps within the team and escalate to the Buying Manager for planning.Performance Reporting & TradingPrepare consolidated weekly category performance reports for the Buying Manager.Monitor in-season trading performance and coordinate the team's response to trading signals.Ensure team trading actions—including markdowns, promotions, and reorders—are logged and executed on time.RequirementsEducation Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail, Commerce, or related fieldExperience 5–8 years in buying, including experience coordinating or leading a smallbuying teamSkills Team coordination; OTB management; range planning; structuredcommercial communicationAttributes Organised, commercially driven, natural people developer, process-