We are seeking a dynamic Head of Buying to lead our global buying function and develop and implement our long-term retail assortment strategy across attractions worldwide. In this role, you will work closely with the Head of Merchandising and Supply to ensure compliance with regulations, drive sustainability and create exceptional product ranges that enhance sales, guest satisfaction and profitability. You will lead the development of a 3-5 year retail assortment strategy, using market insights to drive innovation and shape future product ranges. Your responsibilities will also include managing key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, gross margin, RPC and vendor contributions, while overseeing P&L performance. In collaboration with the Brand/IPs teams, you will create customer-focused product ranges, ensuring they align with sustainability goals and meet the diverse needs of our guests. You will also be tasked with developing pricing strategies that maximise profitability and ensuring that all retail products are compliant with relevant industry regulations across all attractions. Another key aspect of the role is managing vendor relationships, including leading contract negotiations and optimising costs to ensure competitive pricing. You will work closely with other teams on store layouts, merchandising and product placement to drive customer spend and ensure a seamless retail experience across all attractions. Finally, you will lead, mentor and inspire a global team of buying specialists, setting clear goals and fostering a high-performance culture that drives results. Proven experience as a senior leader in Buying within the retail industry, leading teams and operating internationally In-depth expert knowledge of retail range development across key categories, development and buying practices, market trends and consumer behaviour Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify and seize business opportunities Strong negotiation, vendor management and contract management skills Experience sourcing and shipping products directly from countries worldwide, particularly the Far East Excellent financial acumen and ability to analyse complex data to make informed decisions Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills with experience collaborating with senior internal stakeholders, cross-functional teams and building effective vendor relationships Ability to develop and implement range and product strategies that align with company goals, ensuring commercial performance Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams, foster a culture of change, accountability and continuous improvement, especially in a fast-paced, dynamic environment Exceptional negotiation and commercial acumen to manage, partner and motivate vendors to deliver commercial performance Advanced influencing skills, with the ability to communicate clearly across all levels of the organisation and externally and manage potentially conflicting views Detail-oriented and analytical, with the ability to resolve complex issues and make data-driven, customer-centric decisions to drive commercial performance and meet objectives We’re growing fast and alongside a fun and friendly environment, we offer a fabulous package and amazing prospects – ideal if you’re already fantastic and want to become even better (our magic can help here). Benefits include Pension, Life Assurance, discretionary company bonus, 25 days’ holiday and, of course, a Merlin Magic Pass which gives you and your friends and family free admission to all of our attractions worldwide, as well as 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants and 40% discount on LEGO. If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at RecruitmentMerlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible. Competitive