Soundbyte

Buying forms the backbone of our business and is incredibly fast-paced. By identifying trends and understanding our on-going success stories, this team ensure what customers want is on our shelves. It takes a flair for relationship building, negotiation and an analytical approach. We look for people who can deliver a variety of strategies to help drive sales and profit and who have an affinity with what we sell.

Job Description

Buyer – News & Magazines (1 year FTC)

We are currently seeking an experienced Buyer to work within our News & Magazines team on a 1 year Fixed Term Contract.
Reporting into the Trading Controller, the principal objective of this role is to deliver maximum sales and profitability through determining the offers we make to our customers and successfully managing both the trading activities and profit and loss.

The Accountabilities
* Select and develop profitable new lines
* Account manage supplier relationships and negotiating reductions in costs of goods sold, first to market and supplier incomes.
* Overall effective supply chain and cost management
* Lead and develop innovative range marketing plans (in conjunction with marketing)
* Keep abreast of market trends, customer requirements and competitor activity thus identify market opportunities
* Conduct range reviews and undertake continuous improvement of the product offer through effective range analysis * Create open and effective relationships with stores through regular telephone communication and visits

The Requirements for the Role
* Previous retail buying experience with a related product to our core categories
* Account management skills
* Strong negotiation skills
* Strong commercial skills and ability to interpret the market quickly
* Exceptional analytical skills and ability to use data to drive business decisions
* Engaging and influential communication
* Understanding of Profit and Loss management
* Degree educated or equivalent with a high level of numeracy

Whoever joins us always receives ongoing support and exciting career development opportunities. You can also expect a competitive salary and excellent benefits that includes a profit related bonus, 25 days holiday, store discount card and childcare vouchers. It all adds up to a first rate rewards package and the chance make a real impact on the Company's success.

If successful, candidates will be required to obtain a valid passport, undertake a criminal record check and financial check and provide 3 years of continuous educational, professional or employment references. Due to the high number of applications we receive, it is with regret that we are unable to respond to all applications and therefore will only contact short listed candidates. “WHSmith values diversity and welcomes applications from all sections of the Community”