Assistant Category Manager Books

Job Description

Assistant Category Manager (Books & Entertainment)
Swindon
Grade C

We have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Category Manager to join the WHSmith Direct team. Reporting to the Category Manager, you will assist in buying and merchandising across the books & entertainment categories. This role is varied and ranges from supporting in the daily operations of the website to maximising trading opportunities for our current ranges. This is a great opportunity to advance your career within one of the fastest growing functions within WHSmith.

What you'll be doing:
• Manage supplier and customer requirements as well as liaising with our warehouses to maintain good stock availability
• Liaise with external suppliers as well as WHS High Street teams (Marketing, IT, logistics)
• Responsible for maintaining product information in collaboration with external brands and the in-house content team
• Analyse and provide financial information and administrative support to the Category Manager
• Support daily operations of the website, site merchandising, selecting new ranges a well as maximising trading opportunities with current ranges
• Ensure our online offer is exciting, relevant and competitively prices by working closely with suppliers

What we are looking for:
• UK Retail Buying and/or Merchandising experience
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• An analytical mind and ability to recognise trends
• Enthusiasm and drive to deliver ambitious sales growth targets
• Good administration and IT skills
• E commerce experience would be beneficial
• Experience dealing with suppliers and account managers would also be desirable

What we can offer you:
Annual bonus based on company performance
Hybrid working model from home and in the office
24 days holiday, plus your Birthday off, plus Bank Holidays with an opportunity to buy extra days holiday
Finish at 4pm on a Friday
Competitive pension contribution
Staff discount card for stores and online

About Us
WHSmith is a leading, global travel retailer with a smaller business located on UK high streets. Since 1792, we've grown and evolved into a globally recognised brand, and we're proud to be that air of familiarity people love and trust on their journey, both in life and through life. Today, we have more than 1700 stores in over 30 countries across the globe, serving millions of customers every year, and you'll find us at airports, railway stations, hospitals and on the high street.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, colour, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, and basis of disability. When we collect your personal information as part of a job application or offer of employment, we do so in accordance with industry standards and best practices and in compliance with applicable privacy laws.