Head of Buying & Design

Pets at Home; Greater Manchester, Cheadle; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 90,000

Job description

Ready to shape the future of pet accessories through innovation, design and creativity?

At Pets at Home, we’re looking for a visionary Head of Buying & Design for Dog & Cat Accessories to redefine what’s possible in pet care. This is more than just a buying role; it’s an opportunity to create a category that is functional, stylish and truly enhances the lives of pets and their owners.

About the Role

As Head of Buying & Design, you’ll be the creative force behind our dog and cat accessories range, driving product innovation and setting new standards in design and functionality. Owning the category strategy, you will blend insight, creativity and commercial acumen to develop ranges that stand out in a competitive market—both in-store and online.

You won’t just manage products; you’ll create, curate, and innovate. From conceptualising exclusive, design-led own-brand collections to introducing cutting-edge functionality, your work will shape the future of pet accessories.

This is an omni-channel role where you’ll integrate digital and physical retail strategies to ensure our offering is seamless, trend-driven and tailored to the needs of pet owners. By diving deep into customer insights, you’ll craft an experience that surprises and delights—cementing Pets at Home as the go-to destination for pet accessories.

We can offer hybrid working (three days in the office) from our Support Office in Handforth, Cheshire.

Key Responsibilities will include;

• Creating & executing a visionary category strategy that balances design, functionality and innovation to enhance dog and cat lifestyles
• Developing market-leading own-brand ranges that push the boundaries of accessories through unique design and best-in-class quality
• Leading with creativity, translating consumer insights into product solutions that meet unspoken needs and redefine industry standards
• Driving omni-channel success, ensuring a seamless customer journey from store to online with a cohesive and inspiring product range
• Collaborate with designers, suppliers and cross-functional teams to bring fresh, innovative products to market
• Leading and inspiring a high-performing team, fostering a culture of creativity, excellence and passion for pets

About You

• A proven creative leader in senior retail buying or category management, with experience in design-driven, own-brand development
• A strong background in product design, innovation and trend forecasting, ideally within homeware, fashion, toys or lifestyle categories
• Experience navigating the digital and omni-channel retail landscape, ensuring a compelling and cohesive product experience
• Commercially astute, with a deep understanding of supplier partnerships, P&L ownership and sourcing from global markets.
• A strategic thinker with a passion for innovation and change, constantly looking for ways to push boundaries and elevate the customer experience
• A collaborative and inspiring leader who fosters creativity, motivates teams and drives high performance

Why Join Us?

• Annual bonus potential of 25% of salary
• Private healthcare & car allowance
• Company pension contribution of 6.5%
• 36 days annual leave (rising to 38) + your birthday off!
• Free company shares (up to 10% of salary annually)
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• 20% discount across our businesses (Retail, Grooming, Vet Practices)
• Annual Sharesave schemes

At Pets at Home, we celebrate diversity and individuality. We take inspiration from pets—who accept and love unconditionally. We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone belongs. If you bring passion, vision and creativity, we want to hear from you - no matter your background.

Join Us & Make an Impact

This is your chance to shape an industry-leading category and make a real difference for pets and their owners. If you’re passionate about design, innovation and driving change, we want you on our team.

Apply now and bring your vision to life!