Buying Manager

Opportunity Review: Buying Manager at Lidl

This Buying Manager position at Lidl presents a compelling opportunity for ambitious retail professionals to make a significant impact within an award-winning, fast-paced environment. Lidl is known for its dynamic approach to food retail, and this role is central to shaping the customer experience and driving market-leading strategies.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Significant Responsibility and Impact: As a Buying Manager, you will be entrusted with shaping entire product categories. This includes everything from initial concept and product development to final packaging approval and contract negotiations with major manufacturers. Your decisions will directly influence the millions of products sold across over 1,000 stores.
• Career Development and Expertise: This role offers a clear path to becoming a specialist in your chosen area of food retail. You'll gain exposure to global operations, complex negotiations, and strategic decision-making, fostering substantial professional growth.
• Attractive Compensation and Benefits: The salary range of £66,000 - £77,000* per annum, coupled with 35 days of holiday (pro rata), a 10% in-store discount, and a pension scheme, provides a strong financial and lifestyle package.
• Hybrid Working Model: Lidl's commitment to a hybrid working model offers a flexible approach to work. With the opportunity to spend three or more days in their state-of-the-art office (equipped with an on-site gym and restaurant) and up to two days working from home, this model supports a healthy work-life balance.
• Collaborative and Valued Environment: The job description emphasizes a culture where every opinion is valued, encouraging a proactive and collaborative approach. You'll work alongside experienced colleagues and report to Heads of Buying, contributing to a team-driven success.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit Rewarded: Lidl actively seeks candidates with an entrepreneurial mindset, valuing those who can drive initiatives, network effectively at senior levels, and demonstrate confidence in their decision-making.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• High-Pressure, Dynamic Environment: Success in this role requires the ability to thrive in a fast-moving and demanding environment. You'll need to be quick-thinking, logical, and pragmatic to navigate the complexities of retail operations and decision-making.
• Global Scope and Negotiation Prowess: Be prepared for daily interactions with high-level stakeholders, including Account Managers, Commercial Directors, and Managing Directors from leading manufacturers. Exceptional negotiation and networking skills are paramount.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Strong analytical abilities are essential. You will be expected to interpret trends, project sales, and leverage data to inform critical commercial decisions.
• Product Passion and Customer Focus: A genuine enthusiasm for the food retail industry and a deep understanding of customer needs are crucial. Your efforts will directly impact what customers see and purchase in stores.
• Geographic Proximity: Candidates should either live within a one-hour commute of Lidl GB Head Office in Tolworth, Surrey, or be willing to relocate.
• Flexibility on Food Retail Experience: While experience in food retail is desirable, it's not essential. The emphasis is on transferable buying and negotiation skills within the retail sector, along with a strong entrepreneurial drive.

For individuals seeking to elevate their career in a leading retail organization, this Buying Manager position at Lidl offers a unique blend of challenging responsibilities, substantial rewards, and a supportive, forward-thinking work environment. If you possess the drive, strategic thinking, and passion for retail, this role provides an excellent platform for significant career advancement.

*The salary includes a 10% non-contractual London Weighting allowance.