Join to apply for the Buying Manager role at WHSmith
Be at the heart of the commercial engine room. Shape the future. Lead with impact.
Are you a commercially driven leader ready to take full ownership of a high-impact role? At WHSmith Aldgate, we’re looking for an experienced Buying Manager to join us on a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is more than a buying role – it's a chance to lead from the front, drive profitability, and influence the strategic direction of a trusted high street brand.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead from the front – Develop and inspire a high-performing team of Buyers, coaching them to reach their full potential.
- Own the numbers – Full P&L responsibility for your category. Deliver sales, margin, contribution, income, and manage costs and capex.
- Plan ahead – Lead annual trade/category planning, input into 3-year strategic plans, and develop long-term business outlooks.
- Drive strategy – Shape your category's role within the wider business strategy.
- Price with purpose – Own category pricing, run pricing elasticity trials, and identify commercial opportunities.
- Lead innovation – Design and manage cross-category trials and be the go-to person for complex testing initiatives.
- Own supplier relationships – Negotiate annual deals, cost prices, terms, and marketing investment. Drive income and performance reporting.
- Influence the future – Play a key role in new store format development and innovation.
What we’re looking for:
- A proven commercial leader with Buying or Category Management experience.
- Strong analytical, strategic thinking and negotiation skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
- A collaborative leader passionate about coaching and growing teams.
Apply now and make your mark at the core of WHSmith’s commercial success.
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Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Contract
Job function
Purchasing, Strategy/Planning, and Sales
Industries
Retail
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