Buying Manager - Apparel

Role Purpose Supporting the Head of Buying in delivering the set strategy to deliver a profitable, customer-relevant, and commercially competitive product range within an agreed category/brand area. The Buying Manager builds and manages supplier relationships, and leads the day-to-day range, margin, stock, and cost decisions to achieve sales, profit and inventory KPIs.   Key Responsibilities Develop and execute category range architecture across core, seasonal, and innovation, including clear entry and exit strategies, aligned to brand and customer objectives. Lead the build and delivery of compelling product ranges across core, seasonal and trend-led categories. Present ranges with confidence to Directors and senior stakeholders, acting as a key liaison between Heads of and wider cross-functional teams. Lead, manage and develop a team of varying seniority, providing clear direction, coaching and progression opportunities to drive high performance.     Maintain a strong understanding of the customer, competitor landscape and wider market trends; leverage external networks across brands and industry contacts to inform strategy and identify new opportunities. Use insight and market knowledge to shape category direction and influence broader brand strategy. Own product selection decisions and range sign-off within delegated authority, ensuring commercial alignment. Drive pricing strategy, including recommendations on initial pricing and markdown proposals. Partner closely with trading and allocation teams to optimise availability and minimise lost sales. Identify and drive operational improvements within the buying function, championing efficiency, process development and commercial accuracy. Build strong relationships with brand partners to unlock opportunities and ensure competitive advantage in the marketplace. Collaborate cross-functionally with Merchandising & Planning, Marketing, Ecommerce, Studio/Creative, Retail Operations and Supply Chain to ensure effective execution. Provide clear briefs, critical paths and timelines to support product launches, campaigns and go-live readiness. Identify opportunities to improve ways of working within the buying function, driving efficiency, commercial accuracy and process consistency.   Key Measures of Success (KPIs) Sales and gross margin vs plan Stock turn, weeks of cover, intake vs OTB (open-to-buy) Markdown rate and terminal stock Availability / sell-through / lost sales   Skills & Experience Required Proven experience in Sports Fashion Buying at a management level Extensive network within the industry and well connected with strong brand relationships Experience leading, coaching and developing a buying team (e.g., Buyers, Senior Buyers). Ability to delegate effectively, set priorities and manage team capacity in a fast-paced environment. Confident in representing the buying function in cross-functional and senior stakeholder meetings. What We Offer    We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a workplace where every colleague is valued, respected, and empowered. We celebrate the diversity of our teams and strive to ensure that all colleagues regardless of background, identity, or lived experience can thrive and contribute meaningfully.    As a part of our successful and continually evolving company, you’ll be encouraged to embrace and uphold our strategic priorities: putting people first, at the forefront of digital innovation, staying deeply attuned to our customers, and pursuing operational excellence. We are always exploring new avenues for growth, and we welcome individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact every day.    We know our employees work tirelessly to make JD Sports the success it is today and in turn, we offer them some amazing benefits:    Incremental Holiday Allowance  Staff Discount on qualifying purchases across Group retail stores and online  Exclusive Colleague Bike Discount scheme  Discounted Gym membership  Personal development opportunities to learn and develop at work  Access to Apprenticeships and accredited qualifications