EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE:

• A demonstrable track record of operating in a buying role gained within a non-food (and ideally hard goods) retail organisation.
• Proven experience in developing and articulating a strategic buying and category plan, as well as translating it into an executable roadmap.
• Experienced in leading and managing a team to deliver against the plan created.
• Significant experience of sourcing internationally and especially the Far East.
• Strong experience in supplier management and negotiation, with a high level of numeracy.
• Multi-channel background with an understanding of the implications of the retail and online channels on the product selections.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, with a high level of computer literacy and numeracy.

KEY CAPABILITIES:

• Commercially astute and poses strong analytical skills, able to make sense of complex and logical problems quickly with the ability to turn data into action.
• A clear thinker, with strong management presence - able to clearly articulate and build confidence in the plan, ultimately inspiring others to follow.
• Customer focused, with the ability to recognise the customer and commercial trade offs, articulating the case for change with supporting customer and commercial benefits.
• Naturally planned and organised, juggling multiple time horizons, with the ability to prioritise and manage competing demands to drive the greatest value.
• An expert influencer and engager, able to build and nurture relationships with suppliers, yet be positively demanding.
• Confidence, patience, politeness, tact and diplomacy, when dealing with difficult situations.
• Authentic leadership, focused on enabling others to develop and shine.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own and deliver the department’s buying and category strategy, identifying areas where Lakeland can differentiate and win commercially.
• Achieve sales and margin targets by defining, sourcing, designing, and negotiating an optimal product range.
• Develop a deep and regular understanding of competitor activity to ensure Lakeland remains market-leading.
• Drive promotional planning, negotiating special buys and cost reductions that support sales and profit growth.
• Manage the end-to-end critical path – including QA and packaging – ensuring on-time product delivery.
• Partner with the Quality team to uphold legal and environmental standards; work with Customer Services to address customer feedback and product returns.
• Lead supplier relationships, overseeing negotiations, funding, and the supplier rate card to maximise commercial benefit.