Interim Retail Buyer

Longleat is seeking an organised and commercially aware interim Retail Buyer to cover a period of maternity leave and help us continue our tradition of hiring engaged and productive employees.

We have an extensive array of retail outlets boasting products tailored to every guest's preferences. From irresistibly cuddly renditions of our beloved critters to quirky homewares, captivating historical books, and even retro sweets sure to delight the sweetest tooth, we offer something for everyone.

You'll report directly to the Head of Retail, driving Longleat's profitability to new heights. Your role will encompass strategic sourcing, curating enticing product assortments, managing inventory levels, and procuring captivating collections for our esteemed guests at Longleat and Cheddar Gorge. Your efforts will be pivotal in aligning with budgetary objectives while enhancing the overall guest experience.

Key Duties

• Identify, source & secure an optimum range of products in order to maximise sales and profitability.
• Development of product ranges in line with the retail strategy, budgets, quality & price requirements.
• Review department performance and deliver analytical information on sales, ranging & competitor development, analysing consumer buying patterns and predicting future trends.
• Manage and monitor the performance of supplier base and products to ensure that they meet performance targets.
• Develop and negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to continuously improve cost price, lead times and quality and achieve margin targets.

About You

• Purchasing / product development experience within a retail business in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience of price negotiation, managing stock control and budgets.
• Able to create new ranges from scratch and translate new concepts into marketable, saleable products.
• Organises effectively. Able to multi-task and handle multiple projects simultaneously to a high standard.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiating skills.

A Little About Us

At Longleat we offer a day out like no other, our guests are invited to step into the Thynn family home where they will find the finest example of Elizabethan Architecture. They are also immersed into the wild side, where they can visit over 120 species of animals by car, foot, train, bus, and boat.

With a core business of around 1 million guests every year, we are passionate about providing unforgettable experiences that bring family and friends together to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our Values

At Longleat, we believe in engaging and inspiring our employees, putting people first, taking accountability, continuously improving, and acting with integrity. We invite everyone who works with us to subscribe to these values, as they truly set us apart as a place to work.

Why Join the Longleat Team?

In this unique work environment, you will be surrounded by historic landscapes and listed buildings, all whilst listening to our lions roar and wolves howl. You will even have the opportunity to visit our adorable Koalas and cheeky meerkats during your lunch break.

You will receive a rate of £30,000 per annum, in addition to a range of attractive benefits that include:

• 29 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays.
• Unlimited free entry to Longleat for our employees.
• Complimentary tickets to Longleat and Cheddar Gorge and Caves, 18 per annum pro rata.
• 50% off Annual passes for Friends and Family.
• Discounts on food and beverages and retail merchandise.
• 20% off VIP Experiences, 10% off Accommodation.
• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• Employee Assistant Programme.
• Employer contributory pension scheme.
• Perks at work.
• Range of flexible working schemes.

Your Contract

You will be on a 37.5 hour contract for a period of up to 12 months for a period of maternity cover. Working days will be predominantly Monday – Friday, but with flexibility to work weekends, evenings and bank holidays as required.