Senior Merchandiser

Rohan Designs Ltd.; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent outdoor brand in Milton Keynes is seeking a Senior Buyer to lead the buying strategy across womenswear. You will be responsible for developing seasonal strategies, sourcing products, nurturing vendor relationships, and monitoring performance to deliver successful ranges. The ideal candidate has over 8 years of buying experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for outdoor and travel lifestyle products. Benefits include employee discounts, a clothing allowance, and a collaborative work environment.

Benefits

Free onsite parking

Personal clothing allowance

50% discount on clothing

Pension contributions

Life cover based on salary

Employee Assistance Scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum 8+ years experience in Buying.
• Proven ability to create commercially successful ranges.
• Strong understanding of garment construction and functional design.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute seasonal buying strategies.
• Source products reflecting the brand's ethos.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate costs.
• Monitor product performance and sales trends.
• Drive critical path management.
• Lead and mentor a buyer.

Skills

Degree or equivalent qualification in Fashion Design

Experience in Buying

Proficiency in Excel

Understanding of product development

Communication and presentation skills

Organized and proactive

Passion for outdoor and travel products

Willingness to travel

Education

Degree in Fashion Design, Buying & Merchandising

Tools

Excel

Job description

Overview

The Role: As Senior Buyer, you will aid in development and execution of the buying strategy across womenswear for all product categories, including outerwear, layering, trousers, and accessories. Working in close partnership with the Head of Product, you will ensure this strategy is fully aligned with the wider business objectives and brand values. This role is pivotal in driving product performance, delivering a compelling and commercially successful range that meets the needs of our outdoor and travel focused customer while supporting long term growth.

Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning
  • Develop and execute seasonal buying strategies aligned with brand vision and commercial goals.
  • Work closely with the Head of Product to shape seasonal assortments and ensure buying decisions support long-term growth objectives.
  • Build and deliver compelling product ranges that meet the needs of our outdoor and travel focused customer, balancing innovation, trend relevance, and commercial performance.
  • Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer insights to inform buying decisions.
  • Consistently review and adjust RRP structure to align with competitors and company strategy.
• Product Selection & Development
  • Source and select products that reflect the brands outdoor ethos and performance standards.
  • Collaborate with design and tech teams to create exclusive and innovative ranges.
  • Ensure sustainability and ethical sourcing are embedded in the buying process.
• Supplier & Vendor Management
  • Source new vendors that support the companys strategic goals and align with the brands quality standards.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and manufacturers.
  • Manage targets and negotiations on cost prices, margins, and delivery terms to optimise profitability.
  • Monitor supplier performance and ensure compliance with quality and ethical standards.
• Trading & Performance
  • Monitor and analyse product performance, sales trends, and customer insights to inform future buying decisions and maximise profitability.
  • React to in season performance with agile buying and replenishment strategies.
  • Work closely with merchandising to manage OTB and ensure optimal stock levels.
• Critical Path Management
  • Drive critical path, ensuring department and team adhere to all critical path deadlines.
  • Work closely with vendors to clearly set out key deadlines for upcoming season and ensure adhered to.
• Team Leadership and Collaboration
  • Manage and mentor a buyer, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.
  • Partner with Design, Merchandising, and Marketing teams to ensure cohesive product stories and successful go-to-market execution.

Skills & Experience

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Fashion Design, Buying & Merchandising, or a related field.
• Minimum 8+ years experience in Buying.
• Proven ability to create commercially successful ranges across retail and digital.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel.
• Strong understanding of product development and garment construction, fit, and fabric behaviour, especially in relation to functional design.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and inspire across teams.
• Highly organised, proactive, and adaptable in a fast-paced, creative environment.
• Passion for outdoor and travel lifestyle products.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for research, development, and supplier visits.

What You’ll Gain

• Strategic ownership of a buying, within a dynamic product team.
• A platform to shape products that empower our customer get outdoors and to travel and explore with confidence and style.
• A collaborative and supportive environment where your creativity and expertise are valued.

What’s in it for you?

• Free onsite parking
• Personal Rohan clothing allowance
• 50% discount on our clothing
• Contributions to a Pension scheme
• Life cover based on salary
• Employee Assistance Scheme