Zara E-Brochure

Retail Buyer:
Job roles and responsibilities:
Throughout the year, your responsibilities will include:
•Analysing consumer buying patterns and predicting future trends
•Regularly reviewing performance indicators, such as sales and discount levels
•Managing plans for stock levels
•Reacting to changes in demand and logistics
•Meeting suppliers and negotiating terms of contract
•Maintaining relationships with existing suppliers and sourcing new suppliers for future
products
•Understanding the basic rules of vendor management, allocation and price negotiation
•Liaising with other departments within the organisation to ensure projects are completed
•Attending trade fairs, in the UK and overseas, to select and assemble a new collection of
products
•Participating in promotional activities
•Writing reports and forecasting sales levels
•Presenting new ranges to senior retail managers
•Liaising with shop personnel to ensure supply meets demand
•Getting feedback from customers
•Training and mentoring junior staff.
Entry requirements:
Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a degree in retail or
business can equip you with a greater commercial awareness and therefore
increase your chances of getting a job. Graduate programmes are open to
those with a 2:2 or above. In certain buying areas, such as fashion, employers
may look for a relevant degree subject or a demonstrable interest and
commitment to this particular area of retailing. Relevant HNDs and foundation
degrees may be accepted by some employers, particularly if a candidate has
practical experience to offer. It is sometimes possible to work your way up to a
buying position without higher education qualifications. The level of
competition is fierce, however, and there are few vacancies that offer direct
entry into buying.
Personal and professional characteristics:
You will need to show evidence of the following:
•Strong analytical skills
•Negotiation skills and the ability to network and influence people
•Team working and interpersonal skills
•Excellent communication skills
•Numeracy skills and proficiency using IT
•Good organisation skills and the ability to multitask
•The ability to cope with the pressure of having to make important decisions
and meet tight deadlines
•The capability to work in a fast-paced environment and achieve targets
•Drive and determination
•Entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to take risks
•Commercial awareness
•Leadership attributes
•Creative flair
•Confident presentation style
•A passion for retail.
Salary:
•Typical starting salaries for junior buying roles: £18,000 - £25,000.
•Typical salaries for more experienced buyers: £35,000 - £60,000.
•Typical salaries at senior level/with experience: £55,000 - £70,000 plus.
•Salaries vary according to a number of factors, including location, the size of the
business.