We have a fantastic opportunity for a Buyer to join us here at Findel Education, where you will operate in a fast moving, exciting and developing environment. We’re the one-stop-shop for educational supplies, providing all of the products schools and nurseries need, delivered when they want them, at highly competitive prices.

The Role

Reporting to the Buying Manager, as the Buyer for Maths, Computing & IT Hardware you will be responsible for our product ranges, ensuring that we exceed our customers’ needs and inspire the next generation of learners, as well as achieving all relevant commercial targets.

Key tasks include:
o Achieve all buying, commercial and financial objectives for agreed range budgets, including delivery of the range P&L target.
o Manage and set all sell prices for the range, agree cost pricing and ensure P&L and budget targets are achievable. Clearly define category KVIs and price architecture.
o Work collaboratively with Merchandising, Marketing, Digital & Sales to trade performance, contributing positively to trading meetings.
o Conduct supplier negotiations and manage commercial terms, that support delivery of KPIs. Build and maintain long-term supplier relationships and source new suppliers that are aligned to the Buying strategy.
o Develop a deep understanding of the market, competition and customer. Fully understand customers’ needs by visiting schools/nurseries (when permitted) and attending customer advisory boards.
o Deliver well-balanced, market leading Maths & Computing ranges through effective customer engagement, taking into account commercial performance, competitor activitity, market trends and brand ambition.
o Evolve the product range to meet changing customer and commercial needs, working with the New Product Development team where appropriate.
o Work in partnership with QA to ensure that Findel’s ethical sourcing standards are met and that products meet quality standards and packaging specifications.
o Adopt a digital first approach to product, working closely with Marketing to ensure a clear plan of activities for the category. Work with all functions to deliver best in class websites, catalogues and marketing materials, focusing on presentation and merchandising.
o Manage, engage and develop the Assistant Buyers to ensure objectives & KPI’s are met.
o Oversee the setup of products and ensure data accuracy across all relevant systems.

The Person

We are ideally looking for the following skills and experience:
o Previous experience in a similar role, ideally in a fast-paced Buying environment.
o Graduate level, preferably professionally qualified (CIPS).
o Able to demonstrate an interest in education, ideally with knowledge of or a willingness to learn about the Maths & Computing curriculum.
o Commercially astute with an ability to deliver success, delivering profitable growth through margin and impactful buying/procurement techniques.
o Previous P&L and budget responsibility, coupled with an excellent understanding of commercial contracts & key trading terms.
o Strong negotiation skills.
o Results driven and tenacious, with an ability to challenge ways of working, simplify business processes and lead change.
o Confidence, drive and energy with excellent communication and presentation skills, able to engage and influence at all levels both internally and externally.
o Excellent organisation, prioritisation and time management skills.
o Experience in supporting digital growth in the context of Buying preferred

Full-time (36.5 hours per week)

Permanent role.

Competitive salary & benefits package including 25 days holiday plus an additional holiday to celebrate your Birthday, contributory pension scheme & staff discounts.

We are currently working from home and anticipate returning to the office 2/3 days per week.

To apply, please visit Careers Portal (adp.com)