Category Buying Manager – Retail (Auckland)

About the role

This is an excellent opportunity to own a diverse product portfolio within a fast‑growing travel and leisure retail business. You will drive category performance through strategic buying, inventory management and data‑led decision‑making while working closely with retail, marketing, finance and operations teams.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute buying strategies to maximise sales, margin and profitability.
• Manage inventory, forecast demand and optimise stock levels.
• Negotiate with suppliers and maintain strong partnership relationships.
• Identify growth opportunities through promotions, pricing adjustments and new product introductions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to align category plans with overall business objectives.
• Analyse sales, inventory and market data to inform commercial decisions.

Required profile

• Previous experience in Category Buying, buying or merchandise planning within a commercial retail environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with a proven track record of driving sales, margin and profitability.
• Experience managing inventory, forecasting demand and optimising stock levels.
• Demonstrated supplier negotiation and relationship‑management skills.
• Excellent analytical ability to interpret sales, inventory and market data.
• Experience in pricing and promotional strategy development.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Highly organised, able to prioritise in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience with DTC platforms such as Shopify and inventory management systems is advantageous.

Required skills

• Shopify

What we offer

• Competitive salary of $120,000 per year.
• Office‑based role with one day per week remote work (hybrid).
• Fun, collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth.