Head of Buying

Ref: AS3945898

Edinburgh, Scotland

£60,000

• Permanent
• Fashion Retail Buying
• Range Planning
• Supplier Negotiation

About the candidate

A commercially focused buying and merchandising specialist with over seven years’ experience across the fashion retail sector, including exposure to large retail environments, mid-size fashion brands and UK fashion chains. They bring a strong blend of trend awareness, analytical thinking and product strategy, with a track record of building ranges that respond to customer demand and support profitable growth.

Confident leading teams and working closely with suppliers, merchandising, design and wider commercial functions, they are well suited to a fast-paced fashion business looking for a decisive and collaborative buying leader.

What makes them great?

• Improved Profitability: Increased gross profit margins by 15% through stronger stock management, supplier negotiations and improved buying controls.
• Reduced Sourcing Costs: Delivered a 20% reduction in sourcing costs while also improving product quality through better supplier relationships.
• Supported Sales Growth: Played a key role in seasonal collection launches, contributing to a 30% sales uplift during key trading periods.

Areas of expertise

• Buying Strategy & Range Planning: Experienced in shaping multi-category buying strategies, trend forecasting and creating commercially successful product assortments.
• Supplier Management & Negotiation: Skilled in building supplier relationships, negotiating improved terms and supporting better sourcing outcomes.
• Merchandising & Commercial Analysis: Strong understanding of stock management, Open to Buy processes, inventory turnover and trading performance.