Job Description Category BuyerCheck all associated application documentation thoroughly before clicking on the apply button at the bottom of this description.
- Grocery Buying Role Purpose The Category Buyer is responsible for developing and delivering a commercially strong, customer-led category strategy that reflects Dunnes Stores' core values of better quality and better value.You will manage end-to-end buying activity, lead supplier relationships, build market-leading ranges, optimise space and drive category performance and innovation, with full ownership of the category P&L.The successful candidate will have 6-8 years of retail buying experience, strong commercial acumen and the ambition and energy to progress to senior leadership within the organisation.Key Responsibilities Category Strategy and Commercial Performance Develop and execute a category strategy aligned to Dunnes Stores' vision.Deliver volume, sales, margin growth through effective pricing, promotional planning, and range optimization.Use market data, customer insight and trends (e.g.Kantar, Nielsen, loyalty data) to grow share ahead of the wider grocery market.Working with Supply Chain manage the stockholding of your range within agreed category targets.Range and Product Development Build a compelling, customer-led range across all tiers.Develop unique and differentiated own-label products that reinforce Dunnes Stores' reputation for quality.Manage SKU productivity, space efficiency and range rationalisation opportunities.Supplier Management Lead the Dunnes Stores relationship with suppliers in your category.Own negotiations, tenders, trading terms, promotional funding and joint business plans.Build strong supplier partnerships to secure innovation, exclusivity and a competitive value position.Conduct regular supplier performance reviews, P&L tracking and strategic sourcing initiatives.Operational Excellence Plan and execute product launches, seasonal plans, promotional cycles, packaging changes and range resets.Work collaboratively with other grocery departments as appropriate to ensure we maximise the customer experience for across the store events, and cross merchandising opportunities Work cross-functionally with NPD and Technical, Supply Chain, Store Operations, Finance, Marketing, CRM/App and Retail Media.Leadership, Performance Management and Team Development Support, mentor and develop Section Buyers, Trainee Section Buyers and Buying Administrators.Demonstrate leadership behaviours and influence that support progression to Senior Buyer and Head of Buying.Conduct timely and constructive performance reviews with your team to ensure culture of continuous improvement Skills and Experience Required 6-8 years of grocery buying experience within grocery retail or an FMCG/supplier environment.Strong commercial judgement, negotiation skills and proven financial understanding.Ability to interpret complex data and insight and turn it into clear actions.Deep customer focus with a passion for quality, innovation and value.Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and manage multiple stakeholders.Highly organised, resilient and comfortable working at pace in a complex environment.Confidence and ambition to develop into a senior leadership role.Qualifications Third-level degree in Business, Retail Management, Food Science or a related field (preferred, not mandatory).Culinary or technical training is an advantage for fresh food roles.Relevant industry accreditation for wine and alcohol roles.What We Offer Competitive salary.Comprehensive benefits package, including employee discount.Opportunities for professional development and career progression.A dynamic and collaborative work environment focused on innovation and growth.
xsokbrcThe chance to work in a fast-moving, high-impact and customer-obsessed culture.