Job Description

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 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

------------------


In line with Matalan's strategy of putting our customers at the heart of everything we do and in line with our ambition to be the 1st choice for value for Matalan families, you will be accountable for the curation of a commercially viable, trend-led and customer focused product range. Working alongside the wider Product teams, you will have full accountability of implementing of your product category strategy across the total business to deliver a customer centric range, that grows margin and strengthens Matalan's position as a leading fashion and homeware retailer.

Strategic Leadership

Develop and execute the overall divisional range strategy that aligns to our price, quality and value proposition and is in line with our brand guidelines, wider divisional product strategies and business strategy to inspire and delight our omnichannel customer base. Identify market trends, customer insights and competitor activities to ensure an innovative and competitive product ranges.

Range Planning and Development

Lead the buying strategy for your designated buying area across our total product categories, considering all customer segments and sales channels. Build and manage a seasonal buying plan aligned with brand identity, customer demands and market trends. Work closely with Heads of Buying, Design, Merchandising and suppliers to develop trend-led, commercial and cohesive product category ranges, in line with the wider product strategy. Utilise data to analyse sales performance, identify sales opportunities and adjust in season buy plans to continually drive sales growth through informed trading decisions.

Financial Management

Set and manage the product category budget across the three main product categories, including margin and stock targets. Monitor sales performance, managing OTB (open to buy) and reacting quickly to trading patterns and trends to maximise opportunities and minimise risk. Work with the Merchandising teams to ensure accurate forecasting and stock management to maximise on product availability.

Supplier and stakeholder management

Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers across the UK, FE and Europe to ensure reliable sourcing. Liaise with merchandising, planning, marketing, and e-commerce teams to deliver seamless product launches and marketing strategies.

Team Leadership and Development

Lead, inspire, and develop the Buying team to achieve their full potential. Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture across the department. Establish clear goals and KPIs for the team and provide regular performance feedback

About You

-------------


Proven experience in a Buying Manager or Senior Buyer role, ideally within specialist knowledge of the desired product category. Strong commercial acumen and analytical skills with a results-driven mindset. Exceptional negotiation and supplier management capabilities. Strong understanding of customer trends, brand positioning, and the competitive landscape. Experience in managing budgets and delivering against commercial KPIs. Confident leader and team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficient in retail systems, buying tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

------------

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


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