Main purpose:

To support category management in managing the product lifecycle process which seeks to ensure that we continually strive towards procuring a range of products that best meet the demands of our target customers whilst maximising the profit opportunity for the company

Key Activities:

Analyse product performance and customer buying behaviour relative to category Identify market and product opportunities through regular market, competitor and supplier research Supplier searches, negotiations and reviews Make recommendations for the development / rationalisations of the category Negotiate terms of business with suppliers, inclusive of prices, rebates, support etc Maintain an up-to-date file on each supplier Preparations for Grafton group negotiations as appropriate to category Coordinate (through Space Planning) the introduction of products into the business Negotiate and implement exit strategies for discontinued products Minimise the amount of obsolete / discontinued stock within the business Maintain detailed price comparisons with key competitors Recommend, set and maintain competitive selling prices Agree and coordinate (through Marketing) the promotional support calendar Coordinate (through Product File Administrator) the necessary detail to enable product listing Create and coordinate (through Buying Administrator) the placement of new store opening stock orders Timely communication of new or changed rebate deals to the Buying Administrator Communicate category performance, plans and actions to all stakeholders.

Leadership:

High levels of personal integrity / credibility / composure even under pressure Confidence and clarity A team player.

Accountability:

Comprehensive / diligent reseach, analysis and interpretation Building and maintaining full sensitivity to relevant category product markets Full and effective implementation of category plans Ensuring competitive pricing at all times Each of the above has a marked influence on the company's performance and profitability.

Confidentiality:

The position is necessarily exposed to: Confidential Supplier Trading Agreements Confidential Product performance and profitability Confidential Business performance and profitability Meeting Deadlines/Pressure of Work: An ongoing process of product, supplier, market and competitor reviews ensure the pressure is fairly constant A more structured approach will more clearly define deadlines, and provide the basis for more effective category management.