Chief Manager - Product & Buying

As a Buying professional in the Retail industry, you will play a crucial role in developing and implementing detailed seasonal product plans that are in alignment with business goals. Your key responsibilities will include: - Presenting range and obtaining approval for Business Unit (BU) plans in coordination with the Buying and Merchandising Head. - Booking product quantities to support launches and adapting to in-season sales trends. - Analyzing sales data to make informed buying decisions. - Working closely with suppliers to adjust production flows based on sales performance and maximize sell-through. - Setting and reviewing targets for sales, margins, stock levels, commitments, and availability. - Contributing to the operating plan review and capturing key learnings for future planning. - Managing catalogue intentions and the In-Range Presentation (IRP). - Leading planning and execution for all markdown and promotional periods. - Monitoring supplier performance and ensuring timely agreement and alignment on range production plans. - Coordinating with suppliers for flow inputs to maintain alignment between production and commitments. - Managing production plans to optimize Merchandise Stock Index capacity. - Collaborating with the Retail team by providing inputs for store layout planning. - Contributing to pricing strategies for new ranges. - Maintaining competitive awareness and monitoring product offerings in the market. - Planning, optimizing, and reviewing the product catalogue in alignment with store formats and chain performance. - Leading the implementation of new systems and processes for improved efficiency. Key Requirements: - Creating and executing the department's Operating Plan. - Selecting relevant products from the M&S global catalogue to capture trends, drive volume, and meet customer demand. - Leading local product development to address market gaps, regional requirements, and margin improvement opportunities. - Planning and managing flow and phasing of stock to ensure timely product availability. - Ensuring buying is aligned with approved plans and meets critical path timelines. - Driving in-season development of short lead-time products to improve responsiveness. - Developing and scaling "value fashion" lines for Tier 2 markets. - Collaborating with Visual Merchandising and Marketing to deliver compelling in-store looks and storytelling.,