Join one of the UK’s most dynamic retail buying teams and play a key role in shaping products used by millions of customers every week. As a Buying Manager within Near Food, you will lead a diverse portfolio with products which could span across Household, Baby and/or Feminine Hygiene categories, driving category growth through product innovation, supplier partnerships, market-leading quality and exceptional value. Working in a fast-paced, commercially focused environment, you'll have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions, bring new products to market and help deliver ALDI’s continued success.
If you’re a hardworking individual that’s ready to kick-start your career with an award-winning employer, apply to join #TeamAldi today!
Your New Role Category & Commercial Management • Support the Buying Director in developing category strategies that drive sales, profitability and customer satisfaction • Manage and develop product ranges across Household, Baby and/or Hygiene categories, ensuring they remain competitive, relevant and customer focused • Recommend product assortment changes, innovation opportunities and range optimisation initiatives • Identify and recommend pricing, promotional and sourcing opportunities to maximise value and profitability • Monitor market, competitor and consumer trends, providing recommendations on emerging opportunities and risks • Support the delivery of Specialbuy and seasonal programmes where applicable.
Supplier & Product Management • Build and manage strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating the best possible cost, quality and service outcomes • Lead supplier performance reviews and identify opportunities for continuous improvement • Support product development projects, including artwork, packaging, specifications and benchmarking activities • Ensure all products meet ALDI quality, ethical, sustainability and due diligence requirements • Coordinate the resolution of product-related issues, implementing corrective actions where required • Recommend sourcing decisions and supplier listings/delistings based on commercial performance and strategic fit
Analysis, Planning & Governance • Conduct detailed market, competitor and price analysis to inform decision making • Monitor category performance and identify opportunities to improve sales, margin and market position • Maintain accurate buying records, product data and system information • Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory and internal policy requirements • Support category reviews, annual planning activities and business reporting requirements • Work collaboratively with International Buying teams
Cross-Functional Leadership • Collaborate closely across all ALDI teams (including Merchandising, QA, Supply Chain, Brand, CI, Operations and International colleagues) to deliver business objectives • Provide clear and timely communication to stakeholders across the business • Prepare recommendations, proposals and business cases for senior leadership review
Team Leadership • Manage, coach and develop direct reports to achieve individual and team objectives • Conduct performance reviews, provide regular feedback and support career development • Foster a positive, collaborative and high-performing team culture • Manage team resources, holiday approvals and expenses in line with company policy
About You Essential: • Experience in a commercial buying, category management or procurement role • Strong negotiation and supplier management capabilities • Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment • Strong verbal and written communication skills • Proven ability to build effective internal and external relationships • High levels of organisation, accuracy and attention to detail • Positive, proactive and solutions-focused approach • Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel and PowerPoint
Desirable: • Experience within FMCG, retail, household, baby, personal care or hygiene categories • Previous people management or leadership experience • Product development and packaging experience • Knowledge of market trends, consumer behaviour and retail category management principles
What You’ll get in Return · Salary from £63,535 rising to £98,050 · Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, with the opportunity of 2 days remote working · 5 weeks’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays · In office flexi-time · Full training provided · Pension scheme · Private employee medical insurance after 6 months · Company sick pay scheme · Company maternity and adoption pay from commencement and paternity leave pay after 1 year · Long service rewards · Access to MyBenefits, where you can find a wide range of benefits, including our bike to work scheme, shopping and cinema discounts, health cash plan, a FREE will, travel and discounted gym memberships, as well as a host of benefits to support your financial and wellbeing needs. · Access to a free,24/7, confidential virtual GP service for all Aldi Colleagues and their children (under the age of 16)
*You’ll need to live within 90 minutes of your main working location
*Please be aware that this role does not fulfil the requirements for visa sponsorship
Aldi is an equal opportunities employer. We’re committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and are dedicated to promoting a culture of inclusion, providing an environment in which collaboration, respect and fairness are essential. We value diversity and are dedicated to treating all of our colleagues and prospective colleagues fairly and with respect.
If you’re looking for a career that gives you more, apply today!
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