Job Title

About the role Waitrose & Partners prides itself on being different. Our goal is to combine the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist food shop. We are committed to our customers, our suppliers (with a focus on provenance and traceability), and the environment. We have an exciting opportunity to join our Buying team as a Trading Manager in Grocery and Meal Solutions, reporting to the Head of Category Proposition Group.The Trading Manager is responsible for the commercial performance of their categories, leading and collaborating with stakeholders to meet KPIs. They will inspire success through role modeling, training, and coaching, support negotiations, and deputize for the Head of Category Trading when needed.About the roleContract Type: 1 x permanent positionLocation: Bracknell, hybrid working (2-3 days in the office per week)Salary range: £75,700 - £121,000Partnership Level: 5Interviews: in person, week commencing 19th MayKey responsibilitiesDevelop annual and category plans based on business, trade, supplier, and customer data, including trade/promotional strategies.Execute plans with the team, managing performance and adjusting as needed.Provide forecasts and cost analysis for the trading year.Achieve sales and profit targets.Manage supplier relationships, supporting CSR and brand objectives.Oversee product assortment and negotiations to increase margins.Ensure compliance with GSCoP, Competition Law, and Anti-Bribery policies.Foster a positive culture within the team.This role suits a self-motivated individual with strong communication, numerical skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders and suppliers. Experience in leading cross-functional teams and working within a matrix management structure is essential. Creativity and a passion for products are desirable.This position manages 5 direct reports (Buyers).Essential skills/experienceCommercial experience at Trading Manager or Buyer level, with a proven track record of results.Experience in people management, coaching, and mentoring.Experience in strategic planning and budgeting.Strong negotiation skills.Desirable skills/experienceLeadership of cross-functional teams.Stakeholder management across multiple levels.Knowledge of negotiation strategies like the GAP approach.Experience with systems such as BOBI, PIC, PWC.Knowledge of compliance standards like GSCOP and Competition Law.Experience in other directorates at a similar level.External candidates should refer to the attached job outline for further details.About The Partnership We are the UK's largest employee-owned business, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. Our purpose is to build a happier world. We innovate, adapt, and diversify, maintaining our commitment to price, quality, and service.As Partners, we share ownership and responsibility, contributing to our success and treating everyone with kindness and respect. We foster an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and grow.Additional information Some roles require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks and financial probity assessments. We encourage early application as vacancies may close early due to high demand.We support flexible working arrangements, including flexible hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Please discuss your needs with the hiring manager during the interview.#J-18808-Ljbffr