Team Lead Buying - Premium (all genders)

As a Buying Team Lead in the Premium Portfolio, you will report to the Premium Head of Buying. You are responsible for creating a clearly defined assortment strategy and overseeing its execution and delivery. You will plan and manage the budget for this business, lead the buying team, foster partner relationships, and collaborate closely with the Merchandising Team.

Our Vision: "To become the starting point for Premium Fashion, engaging and inspiring our customers with a curated and exclusive assortment showcased in a brand-first, authentic way."

INCLUSIVE BY DESIGN

At Zalando, our vision is to be inclusive by design. This begins with our hiring practices—we do not discriminate based on gender identity, sexual orientation, personal expression, ethnicity, religious belief, or disability. You may omit your picture, age, or marital status from your application. We evaluate candidates solely on their qualifications and merit.

We aim to provide a positive candidate experience. Please inform us of any accommodations you may need so we can support you throughout the process.

WHAT WE’D LOVE YOU TO DO (AND LOVE DOING)

• Develop and execute the strategic direction for the Premium Textile business, implementing it in collaboration with internal teams (buying, marketing, markets) and partners.
• Maintain a deep passion for the Premium Fashion Industry and possess an impeccable reputation and strong connections within it.
• Manage OTB for your category to maximize sales, gross margin, and inventory turnover. Oversee the assortment's performance, working closely with Merchandise Planning to drive sales and profits.
• Coordinate assortment highlights with marketing teams to enable engaging stories across on-site and off-site channels.
• Build and nurture long-term, trustful partnerships with major brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, and Hugo Boss.
• Demonstrate strong negotiation skills and strategic thinking to create mutually beneficial business relationships.
• Foster cross-category and cross-functional relationships, supporting teams like Fashion Categories, Partner Program, and ZMS.
• Lead, coach, and develop your team, from Buying Assistants to Senior Buyers, by identifying strengths and training needs.
• Bring relevant experience working in fast-paced e-commerce retail, with at least 8+ years in senior buying roles, especially with large international fashion brands.
• Show strategic leadership, stakeholder management, trend-spotting abilities, and a track record of implementing process improvements focused on customer-centricity.
• Apply strong analytical skills and business acumen to decision-making processes.
• Excel in negotiation, both written and spoken, with a proven record of successful negotiations.

OUR OFFER

Zalando offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Employee shares program
• 40% discount on fashion and beauty products sold and shipped by Zalando, 30% off Zalando Lounge, plus discounts from external partners
• Two paid volunteering days annually
• Hybrid work model allowing up to 60% remote work per week, flexible per team
• Work from abroad for up to 30 days annually
• Starting with 27 vacation days per year
• Relocation assistance (subject to prior agreement)
• Family support services, including counseling
• Health and wellbeing options, including Gympass
• Mental health support and coaching
• Development opportunities via our training platform and biannual peer reviews