Job purpose

To put the customer requirements at the centre of the product offer to develop and deliver a commercial and profitable range that improves sales opportunity

Key accountabilities and measures

• Support the Buyer working with Design to interpret and adapt to market trends and direction, ensuring that the conceptual range developed is differentiating and targeted to the needs of the customer
• Work with the Buyer to analyse historical sales in line with trends and design direction to manage product mix parameters including price architecture, colour balance, shape and margin to deliver a highly commercial and balanced range
• Promote and support the collaboration with Sourcing Offices globally to help develop appropriate supply routes enabling the Department to react to trade, as well as negotiating the best prices and lead times with supplier to achieve the gross margin buying target
• To work with the Buyer to manage the departmental critical path (including supporting approvals), providing mentorship and direction to junior members of the Buying team as well as other participants in the buying and product development process. To own and drive the production critical path.
• Manage BAAs to ensure efficient product & sample management across the buying floor in order to meet all H&S regulations. Support Buying Admin Assistants training and development to help upskill teams.
• To actively participate in coordinating and presenting the range for sign-off and effectively managing systemic elements of the buying process, ensuring the timely completion of relevant systemic approvals and processes

Key skills

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to empower junior members of the team and connect with Global Sourcing Offices and influence internal and external partners
• Experience in developing a comprehensive product range including marketing and packaging which satisfies all customers’ future requirements
• Understanding of the concepts of brand strategy and knowledge of the current competitive marketplace
• Basic understanding of Merchandise Planning & ability to understand M&S Buying systems End to End and manage systems accountabilities for the Department

This is an excellent opportunity to join us at an exciting time of change and transformation! In exchange for your experience, we will reward you with a competitive salary and market leading benefits package.

Interested? Apply here!

Marks & Spencer strives to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and loved by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. Join us and make an immediate impact. We are committed to an active Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunities Policy, which starts with our recruitment and selection process. Applicants with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation by email amanda.cowie@marksandspencer.com, so we can make alternative arrangements for you.