Manager - Buying

The Manager – Buying will be responsible for planning, selecting, and managing product ranges that align with the business objectives. The role requires a strong commercial acumen and an eye for market trends to deliver a compelling product offering that drives sales, maximizes profitability, and meets customer expectations

Key Deliverables(Essential Functions & Responsibilities of the Job):

• Formulate quarterly product plans in alignment with business goals.
• Prepare and present range selections to secure sign-off with the Head.
• Manage product bookings to support launch plans and respond to in-season variables.
• Conduct in-depth analysis to inform and support buying decisions.
• Monitor and respond to sales performance; adjust production plans in coordination with suppliers.
• Set and review targets for sales, margins, stock levels, and availability.
• Participate in operating plan reviews and identify key learnings.
• Oversee catalogue planning, markdown strategies, and IRP completion.
• Ensure timely alignment between production flows and business commitments.
• Coordinate with suppliers to manage MSI capacity and production timelines.
• Provide necessary information to support retail layout planning.
• Contribute to the development of effective pricing strategies.
• Stay updated on competitor product offerings and market trends.
• Plan and optimize catalogue assortments, especially tailored to specific store clusters or geographies.
• Support implementation of new systems, tools, and process improvements.

Key Requirement:

• Ownership of department operating plan.
• Selection and curation of products from the Marks & Spencer global catalogue, ensuring alignment with trends, volume drivers, and key focus areas.
• Develop local product lines to address market gaps and margin opportunities.
• Strategize product flow and phasing to align with commercial calendar.
• Ensure product delivery adheres to the buying plan and critical path.
• Manage catalogue planning and execution.
• Develop faster-turnaround products for in-season responsiveness.
• Create ‘value fashion’ lines suited for Tier 2 markets.
• Collaborate with VM and Marketing to showcase seasonal looks and trends effectively.
• Drive product visibility and performance during peak trading periods, such as gifting seasons.