Avoca operates in 14 locations across the country.
After all this time, the ethos of Avoca remains the same.
We cherish our time-honoured traditions, which have been lovingly passed down through several generations.
Our skills might be steeped in a long and rich tradition, but our attitude is to look to the future.
We are now heralded as one of Ireland's most exciting retail stores, with a host of award-winning cafes, restaurants and food markets crammed with artisanal ingredients from near and far.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a buying professional join our growing Food Buying Team.
The ideal candidate will have a strong buying record, a passion for food, understand current trends and have experience in category management. The successful candidate will have responsibility for driving category sales and profit in line with Company's operating plan. This will be achieved through efficient sourcing and supply of relevant product at optimal price and range to meet and exceed customer expectation.
The role holds responsibility for the development and implementation of a strategic range for the category that aligns with the company's goals and consumer insights.
This role will work closely cross-functionally with other departments including Marketing, Creative, Supply Chain, Business Excellence, Food Quality & Safety and Finance This role will be based in the Avoca head office in Kilmacanogue Bray with ad-hoc travel in Ireland.
Key Responsibilities Develop annual plans and budgets based on a defined strategy.
Drive sales and profit in line with operating plan budgets.
Set effective promotional and marketing plans in line with Company strategy.
Initiate revenue driving plans through innovation, concept, promotional planning.
Develop and maintain strong business relationships with existing supply base and source new suppliers where required.
Negotiation on new and existing supplier relationships and contracts.
Lead Category Management: develop range plans through analysis of insight, sales and trends.
Set effective range strategies to optimise selling format and product choice.
Set clear range and price architecture to ensure profitability and value objectives for both the company and customers are being met.
Understand and identify market trends and innovations and implement actions to capitalise on those trends. Lead new product development plan for category: managing the sourcing and introduction of new products in conjunction with cross functional teams.
Continuously challenge and develop the Avoca "Food Offer".
Drive efficiency improvements with supply base and distribution.
Identify buying best practice to drive continuous improvement.
Ensure consistent application of buying policies and procedures.
Work with store operation teams on category management and layout within stores.
Lead and participate in projects.
The successful candidate will have/be: Minimum of 3 years' experience in a buying role in retail/FMCG environment.
Proven track record of delivering commercial results.
Strong commercial acumen and proven analytical skills.
Strong product knowledge and passion for food.
Creative in developing the customer offer with the ability to spot trends and develop concepts.
Excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills.
Ability to work under pressure.
Knowledge of applying category management principles which would be an advantage.
Proficiency in MS Office and Excel.
Degree or relevant experience
