Senior Wine Buyer: Strategy, Negotiation & Growth

John Lewis plc; Bracknell; Hybrid; GBP 69,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

John Lewis Partnership, on behalf of Waitrose and Partners, is seeking a Senior Wine Buyer for a 12-month fixed-term contract in Bracknell. You will curate wine selections, build strong supplier partnerships and own the annual category plan across channels.

The role requires wine expertise (WSET Level 4 Diploma or Master of Wine), strong negotiation, and cross-functional leadership. Expect a hybrid working pattern with some travel; lead a pod of Buyers to deliver profitable growth.

Qualifications

• Wine qualification (WSET Level 4 Diploma or Master of Wine) or demonstrable wine tasting experience.
• Experience as Wines Buyer or equivalent commercial role.
• Experience of cross-functional matrix working.
• Strong negotiations skills are critical to success in this role.
• Ability to translate vision into category plan.

Responsibilities

• Select a portfolio of wines within allocated regions and countries.
• Negotiate supplier terms and contracts, including price and marketing support.
• Deliver category KPIs such as Sales, Profit and Market Share.
• Lead a Category Pod and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve targets.
• Coach and mentor L7 Buyers to develop buying capability.
• Drive efficiencies with suppliers and supply chains.

Skills

Wine knowledge

Negotiation

Analytical

Cross-functional work

Supplier management

Influencing

Education

WSET Level 4 Diploma

Master of Wine

Job description

John Lewis Partnership, on behalf of Waitrose and Partners, is seeking a Senior Wine Buyer for a 12-month fixed-term contract in Bracknell. You will curate wine selections, build strong supplier partnerships and own the annual category plan across channels.

The role requires wine expertise (WSET Level 4 Diploma or Master of Wine), strong negotiation, and cross-functional leadership. Expect a hybrid working pattern with some travel; lead a pod of Buyers to deliver profitable growth.