Manager - Buying - Apparel Retail Business

Buying Manager - Apparel Retail Brand

Job Description:

The Manager - Buying will be responsible for planning, selecting, and managing product ranges that align with the business objectives. The role requires a strong commercial acumen and an eye for market trends to deliver a compelling product offering that drives sales, maximizes profitability, and meets customer expectations

Key Deliverables (Essential Functions & Responsibilities of the Job):

- Formulate quarterly product plans in alignment with business goals.

- Prepare and present range selections to secure sign-off with the Head.

- Manage product bookings to support launch plans and respond to in-season variables.

- Conduct in-depth analysis to inform and support buying decisions.

- Monitor and respond to sales performance; adjust production plans in coordination with suppliers.

- Set and review targets for sales, margins, stock levels, and availability.

- Participate in operating plan reviews and identify key learnings.

- Oversee catalogue planning, markdown strategies, and IRP completion.

- Ensure timely alignment between production flows and business commitments.

- Coordinate with suppliers to manage MSI capacity and production timelines.

- Provide necessary information to support retail layout planning.

- Contribute to the development of effective pricing strategies.

- Stay updated on competitor product offerings and market trends.

- Plan and optimize catalogue assortments, especially tailored to specific store clusters or geographies.

- Support implementation of new systems, tools, and process improvements.

Key Requirement:

- Ownership of department operating plan.

- Selection and curation of products from the global catalogue, ensuring alignment with trends, volume drivers, and key focus areas.

- Develop local product lines to address market gaps and margin opportunities.

- Strategize product flow and phasing to align with commercial calendar.

- Ensure product delivery adheres to the buying plan and critical path.

- Manage catalogue planning and execution.

- Develop faster-turnaround products for in-season responsiveness.

- Create value fashion lines suited for Tier 2 markets.

- Collaborate with VM and Marketing to showcase seasonal looks and trends effectively.

- Drive product visibility and performance during peak trading periods, such as gifting seasons