Senior Buying Manager

Have you got a passion for toys and making a difference in a business that is going places?
Ever wanted to have a secret meeting in the Batcave or immerse yourself in Jurassic World? Join us at The Entertainer Head Office and you can do exactly that in our bright character-based meeting rooms!
Job Purpose
Are you passionate about Toys ? We are looking for an experienced buyer to join our fast-paced buying team and work under the direction of the Head of Buying, who is responsible and accountable for the buying of designated supplier base ranges. Supporting as needed team development and to proactively seek ways to continuously improve the buying function processes. Ability to be agile, operate commercially as an expert in their role and be able to understand the wider business needs in an expanding and diversifying company.
Alongside a keen interest in the toy market and a flexible approach, you will also be a skilled negotiator with exceptional communication skills and supremely organised. As an expert in your field, you will be able to deep dive and micromanage the smaller commercial details whilst also stepping back and maintaining a more holistic view of the wider business and functions. On top of all that you will also be a brand ambassador, displaying a natural ability to build effective working relationships, enabling you to work collaboratively with internal teams, partners and our supply base.
Responsibilities
Work in conjunction with Head of Buying and Directors to influence strategic plans and developments.
In the absence of the Head Buyer is able to operate and manage the specific area of the business.
Presents in a clear, concise and accurate manner, detailed information regarding their responsible area.
Ensures proposition is able to deliver required multi-channel growth and maintains understanding of requirements of all channels.
Completes project management tasks as requested by Director of Buying and Head of Buying.
Uses leadership skills to support with the motivation and people management of the team.
Generates ideas and proposals to impact the business with reference to promotions and trade plan.
Monitors and maintains stocks as per KPI’s set.
Completes buying trips as needed within the UK.
Liaises with Stores, Marketing and eCommerce teams to develop and maintain professional working relationships and ensure sales are maximised through the site and in line with overall strategy.
Ability to build a balanced/commercial range that meets the customer needs and delivers the target performance.
Always strives to improve the department’s operation and increase knowledge of own and related job functions.
Is an ambassador for the brand.
Skills & Experience
Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar commercial role, ideally within retail.
Must have previous frontline supplier facing experience.
Commercially astute with a proven track record of leading negotiations to a successful conclusion.
Experience in managing, developing and coaching a number of team members in a variety of roles.
Excellent organisational skills and ability to scope and develop new or improved core processes.
Ideally a degree or equivalent qualification.
Computer literate with sound excel skills (windows desktop/laptop and server systems.
As an employee at The Entertainer, your amazing benefits will include:
Birthday Leave plus 33 days of holiday (including Bank Holidays)
- Annual Bonus scheme
- Retail Trust & Virtual GP
- Pension salary sacrifice
- Generous toy discount
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
- High Street and leisure discounts
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Life Cover
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