Buyer - Womenswear (Temporary)

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 to 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

We're currently looking for a Buyer to join our largest Womenswear department, to be responsible for creating and promoting a range of products for each season, in order to achieve sales, stock and margin targets for the department.

1. Co-ordinate both the look and style of the full range of the Womenswear department.
2. Establish and maintain good relationships with existing and potential suppliers, attending trade shows, buying trips and competitor shopping trips as and when required.
3. Work closely with the Merchandising team to propose ranges/products for marketing campaigns and events, including 'The Show', following the key looks driven by Marketing.
4. Prepare and present to Heads of department and Directors at range selection and sign off meetings.
5. Plan product launches in line with divisional launch dates and ensure the ranges land on time by effectively managing the junior team and critical path.
6. Manage and develop the team, an Assistant and Trainee Assistant Buyer, setting and managing objectives alongside day to day distribution of workload.
7. Negotiate costs with supply base on new and core products to meet BIM requirements.
8. Create the strategy for the department alongside the Merchandising team to fit in with divisional KPIs.

About You

To find the best people for our Buying teams, we'd like you to have the following....

1. Successfully held a Buyer role covering a large & high impact Womenswear department
2. Experience within a fast-paced fashion retail environment
3. Able to demonstrate strong leadership and coaching skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate in the workplace
4. Ability to drive and deliver results in line with company strategy
5. Quick learner able to deal with & manage change
6. Strong commercial acumen
7. Able to travel when the business requires

Benefits

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

1. 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service
2. Thrive Recognition Scheme
3. Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust
4. Life Assurance
5. Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers
6. Pension Scheme
7. Access to a wide range of career development
8. Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business