Role IntroductionEstablished in 1992, Applegreen is a leading convenience roadside retailer in the Republic of Ireland, the UK and the US in both large-scale Motorway Service Areas and Travel Plazas, as well as smaller petrol stations. The business has grown to over €3BN in annual revenue, operating 600 Motorway Service Plazas and forecourt sites internationally and employing over 17,000 people.Applegreen is in a rapid growth phase and to support this ambitious growth, we are seeking to onboard a Buyer, to join our team.This role will form part of the Trading team and reports to the Senior Buyer The successful candidate will be a confident people person who can fit into Applegreen seamlessly and adopt a hands-on approach to their role.As a Buyer at Applegreen, you will play a pivotal role in the overall management of specific Store categories. You will be a member of the trading team including buyers and support staff, implementing strategic initiatives that align with our business growth. This position requires a skilled professional who possesses strong analytical abilities, robust negotiation skills, and the aptitude to foster collaborative relationships both internally and externally. This role will have one direct report.Key ResponsibilitiesAs Applegreen expands, the responsibilities will evolve and change over time. The core responsibilities will centre around the following areas:Category ManagementOversee full category management for your designated product area, including responsibility for sales performance, margin optimization, budget adherence, and inventory management.Supplier RelationshipsDevelop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with existing and prospective suppliers, ensuring alignment with key company departments to enhance trading strategies.Contract NegotiationNegotiate and manage supplier contracts, demonstrating sound commercial practices and ensuring favourable terms through effective Joint Business Planning (JBP) and Long-Term Agreement (LTA) negotiations.Income OpportunitiesIdentify, develop, and execute initiatives aimed at increasing ancillary income streams, enhancing overall profitability and market presence.Product DevelopmentScout and source innovative, high-quality product development opportunities. Manage the product lifecycle from conceptualization through to execution, ensuring alignment with market needs.Process ImprovementDrive operational efficiencies within the Trading department by implementing new processes and advocating for change when necessary.Market AnalysisStay abreast of market and industry trends through competitor analysis, ensuring our product offering remains competitive and relevant.Range PlanningStrategically plan and develop range plans for core and seasonal product buys to optimize assortment and stock levels.Quality AssuranceEnsure that quality standards are met across all products, aligning with customer expectations and regulatory requirements.Pricing StrategySet and review pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness in the marketplace while ensuring profitability. Maintain a comprehensive pricing policy and closely monitor competitor pricing activities to ensure alignment with market conditions.Performance ImprovementLead initiatives for continuous improvement at both the category and process levels, focusing on delivering best value and quality within the team.Sales MonitoringMonitor and report on sales performance metrics to senior management, providing insights and recommendations for strategic adjustments.Strategic PlanningEngage in strategic planning for product and category offerings to align with long-term business objectives.KPI ManagementGenerate, track, and analyse Key Performance Indicators (KPI) to assess performance against set business goals.Supply Chain CoordinationCollaborate with the supply chain team and suppliers to ensure optimal product availability across our range, managing any potential disruptions proactively.The Candidate Should Have The FollowingQualifications, experience & skills3+ year's experience in buying with demonstrable track record in category management and strategic sourcing.Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).Exceptional negotiation and vendor management skills.Demonstrable track record in category management and strategic sourcing.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across various organizational levels.Additional Key Skills & AttributesA dynamic individual who adapts well to change and can thrive in a rapidly growing organisation that continues to evolve.Proven track record of delivering to tight deadlines.A highly organised individual with ability to plan and prioritise workloads effectively for maximum impact and adapt around changing priorities as required.Ability to execute directly at high quality and pace.Excellent drive, enthusiasm and commitment and a keen interest in developing a career in Applegreen.A 'can do' attitude and a positive solution focused mindset.Has strong commercial acumen and a focus on delivering value to the business.Exceptional interpersonal skills, and ability to engage and develop relationships with individuals at all levels of the organisation.Be a self-starter, and also be able to work collaboratively as a member of a highly interdependent team across many parts of Applegreen.Is resilient, calm under pressure and comfortable dealing with ambiguity.Has sound judgement and objective logical decision-making skills.Has strong leadership potential and management skills, who will be a role model for the people and culture at Applegreen.Proficiency in procurement software and tools; experience with ERP systems is a plus.Project management skills are a bonusA proactive approach to problem-solving and a change-oriented mindset.Microsoft office intermediate to advanced level in excel, PowerPoint & wordSAP Experience, Power BI or equivalent beneficialExperience within a convenience FMCG retail environment also advantageousWilling to travel ad hoc if required in addition to supporting out of hours content development as required.Application ProcessIllustrative Application & Screening Process (subject to change):Please submit an up to date tailored CV (max 2 pages)Interview & Selection ProcessTwo interview rounds will be required for this role.To Apply Please forward your CV via the APPLY Now button below.