Head of Buying

**Role overview :

Managing the Buying Team (8 members) in sourcing new products, negotiating optimal terms from new and existing suppliers, and placing orders for a hard goods retailer. The role is head office based 5 days per week.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Department Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the Buying department.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 8 buyers to ensure high performance and professional growth.

• Establish departmental goals and strategies aligned with company objectives.

• Sourcing and Procurement:

• Identify and source new products to meet market demands and expand the product range.

• Conduct thorough market research to stay updated with industry trends and identify potential suppliers.

• Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, cost, reliability, and delivery performance.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing suppliers to ensure a reliable supply chain.

• Contract Review and Negotiation:

• Review, negotiate, and manage contract terms to secure the best possible conditions for the company.

• Ensure all agreements comply with legal and company standards.

• Regularly assess supplier contracts to ensure adherence to agreed terms and conditions.

• Inventory Management:

• Develop and implement an inventory management strategy to improve stock accuracy and turnover.

• Monitor inventory levels to prevent stockouts and excess inventory.

• Coordinate with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure timely and efficient stock handling.

• Cost and Quality Control:

• Ensure cost-effectiveness, quality, reliability, and timely delivery of sourced products.

• Conduct regular supplier performance evaluations and take corrective actions when necessary.

• Implement cost-saving measures while maintaining product quality and supplier relationships.

• Process Improvement:

• Identify and implement improvements in procurement processes and procedures.

• Develop and monitor departmental KPIs to measure and enhance performance.

• Introduce new systems and practices to increase efficiency and effectiveness in the buying process.

• Strategic Initiatives:

• Drive strategic cost savings, improve on-time delivery, reduce lead times, and enhance inventory control.

• Align purchasing strategies with overall business goals and collaborate with senior management.

• Participate in cross-functional projects to support business growth and operational excellence.

• Confidentiality and Reporting:

• Maintain company confidentiality at all times.

• Generate ad-hoc reports as required by the Director.

• Report any security breaches or dishonest acts by staff, visitors, or the public to senior personnel.

• Supplier Relations:

• Negotiate ongoing optimal terms with new and existing suppliers.

• Manage the purchase of products, capital, and non-capital lines based on store replenishment needs or sales forecasts.

• Expedite orders and ensure timely delivery.

• Optimize stock turnover by ensuring frequent and adequate ordering, and by liaising with suppliers to provide product sales forecasts.

• Monitor product failure rates and negotiate resolutions with suppliers.

• Collaborate with suppliers to secure contributions to marketing efforts as needed.

• Travel and Housekeeping:

• Occasional travel and overnight stays will be required.

• Maintain good housekeeping practices in all areas of responsibility.

BBBH31088