Group Buying Specialist

Hudson Group is an international retailer and distributor primarily involved in the sport and fashion wear sectors. The Group’s head office is in Malta but is also present through offices in Italy, Cyprus, Morocco, Nigeria and Algeria.  

Though Hudson Holdings was founded in 2006, the Group’s roots reach as far back as 1987 when the first pair of NIKE was sold in Malta.

Role purpose

To establish a representative product line in the assigned categories to enable all stores to achieve their sales and margin targets, based on the Brands’ and/or Franchisees’ principles while maintaining a strong competitive position. Visit stores periodically to assess the value of our product line and needs and analyse the competition. 

The key duties and responsibilities of the role are as follows: 

• Interprets the company product strategy into product ranges 

• Adheres to brand product strategy to ensure cohesive statement is maintained  

• Balances the range for the target consumer and by market in terms of price points, styles, fashion colour, etc. 

• Continuous review of in-season collection to maximise range, sales, and profit 

• Analyse competitor product ranges and actions to ensure we are leading 

• Interface with all different functions of the business i.e., planning and merchandising and ensures a constant information flow 

• Drive opportunities using critical path to ensure maximum flexibility to decrease markdown risk and maximise sales 

• Review department performance on a weekly basis and proposes action for trading out of poor performing areas and buying into successful areas 

• Coordinate with VM and Marketing for the implementation of the Marketing/VM/Trade calendars; Ensure understanding of all the critical dates in the calendar 

• Understand the market and competition well and is up to speed with trend activity 

• Meet deadlines in buying calendars and critical path 

• Work with the Merchandiser to ensure merchandise is phased in to provide the correct level of ‘newness’ for the customer according to divisional strategy 

KPIs

• Annual Turnover 

• Sell Out 

• Margins 

• Terminal Stock 

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience  

• Diploma in Business Administration, Finance, or another relevant field  

• 4 years of experience as a Buyer with a medium to large size retailer 

• Computer proficiency with advanced knowledge of Excel 

• Strong aptitude with numbers and clear understanding of retail math skills  

• Strong organisational skills with ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize and meet deadlines. 

• Ability to communicate persuasively, influentially, and responsibly across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. 

• Excels in team environments and in building and developing strong interpersonal relationships, while maintaining an individual determination to accomplish goals.