Interim General Merchandise Buyer

London Drugs Limited; Richmond; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

London Drugs, a leading retail chain in Canada, is seeking a General Merchandise Buyer for a one-year contract with the possibility of extension. This role involves sourcing innovative products, managing vendor relationships, and driving profitability through strategic negotiations. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and communication skills, and will have opportunities for career growth and performance-based advancement.

Benefits

Bonus based on performance

Employee discounts

Opportunity for advancement

Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

Employee Recognition Program

Company-Matched RRSPs

Ongoing In-House Training

Employee Family Assistance Program

Community Involvement Opportunities

Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities.
• A flexible mindset with the ability to adapt to change.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full buying cycle with a focus on category management.
• Source unique products and manage supplier relationships.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust strategies accordingly.

Skills

Communication

Analytical Thinking

Problem Solving

Organizational Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Relevant Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Benefits:

• Bonus based on performance
• Employee discounts
• Opportunity for advancement

Not just a job…

a community

a partnership

a team

You’ll experience them all at London Drugs. As one of Canada’s fastest-growing and most successful retail chains, we know what it takes to build a satisfying career. We are seeking innovative, customer focused people to join our team!

Our Richmond, BC Head Office currently has opportunities for:

General Merchandise Buyer (Interim)

This a one-year contract with possibility of extension.

About Us:
At London Drugs, sourcing innovative and high-quality products is a core part of what makes us one of Western Canada's most beloved and trusted brands. Guided by our Brand Framework, our dedicated buying team travels the globe to identify emerging trends and source exciting new products—often before our customers even know they want them. This forward-thinking approach helps us lead the market in a variety of product categories.

The Role:
We are currently looking for an experienced Buyer to join our General Merchandise team. As a Buyer, you will play a critical role in managing the full buying cycle, with a focus on disciplined category management. You will be responsible for sourcing unique products, ensuring product availability, managing relationships with suppliers, and helping shape the future of London Drugs' product offerings. This role offers significant opportunities for career growth, leadership development, and performance-based advancement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Sourcing & Vendor Management:
• Travel throughout Canada, the United States, Europe, and Asia to source new products and attend relevant trade shows such as ISM, Expo West, NACDS, Fancy Food Show, SPOGA, Canton Fair, and more.
• Meet with vendors to negotiate contracts, pricing, and promotional programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing vendors while sourcing new suppliers for future product needs.
• Drive profitability through strategic negotiations, including rebates, discounts, and promotional allowances.

Category Management & Performance Analysis:

• Monitor and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales performance, inventory turns, and gross margins.
• Stay informed on industry trends and analyze consumer buying patterns to inform product selection.
• Adjust planograms as necessary to ensure agility and alignment with evolving market needs.
• Oversee the testing of sample products and report findings.
• Minimize defective returns through proactive quality control and vendor management.

Inventory & Sales Management:

• Ensure stock levels meet store inventory and promotional requirements by coordinating with store personnel.
• Review product records for accuracy and correct any discrepancies as they arise.
• Work closely with other departments within the organization to ensure timely and effective project completion.

The Ideal Candidate Will Possess:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• A flexible mindset with the ability to adapt to change and manage shifting priorities
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities
• Sound judgment and effective problem-solving capabilities under pressure
• Exceptional organizational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage at all levels of the organization
• A professional approach to delegation, follow-up, and accountability
• A commitment to confidentiality and maintaining the corporate image of London Drugs

Compensation and Benefits:

• Starting pay will be determined based on your relevant experience, knowledge, and education, within the indicated salary range.
• In addition to your base salary, you will have the opportunity to earn significant bonuses based on your performance in meeting sales, margin, inventory, contribution goals, and other key metrics.
• We believe in rewarding hard work and offering opportunities for growth. Our promote-from-within philosophy ensures that high performers have the chance to advance their careers with us.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Coverage for you and your family
• Employee Discount Program – Enjoy savings as we share our success with you
• Employee Recognition Program – Receive tangible rewards for your outstanding work
• Company-Matched RRSPs – Helping you plan and save for your future
• Ongoing In-House Training & Education Courses – Committed to your lifelong learning and professional development
• Employee Family Assistance Program – Free, confidential counseling to support your well-being
• Community Involvement – Opportunities to give back and make a positive impact in our communities

If you’re ready to make an impact and take the next step in your career, we invite you to apply today. Join London Drugs, where innovation and opportunity come together.

Apply Now!

London Drugs is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We are committed to building a company that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

We will provide accommodations during the recruitment process upon request.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work applicable to this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Be advised, London Drugs DOES NOT use third party recruitment services.

London Drugs may collect, use, and/or disclose your personal information (including the information in this application) where it is reasonable for establishing, managing or terminating an employment relationship. This includes the use or disclosure of your personal information to persons inside or external to our organization, for the purpose of checking references or gathering other information to support an assessment of your candidacy.

To protect yourself, do not respond to unsolicited job offers from individuals or e-mail addresses, and never disclose any sensitive details about your identity (including personal or financial) to anyone you do not know or trust or on any unverified website, or website you do not trust.