A key focus of the Senior Category Buying Manager is to build a balanced, commercial and innovative product range. The successful candidate will be accountable for theoretical margin, delivered through supplier negotiation and category management. They will negotiate complex contracts across a diverse number of categories including Savoury, Packaged Drinks, Breakfast & Snacking, representing the values of Caffè Nero in every action and decision.,

Developing clear category plans including tender dates, range refreshes and supplier strategies - delivering the right mix of sales and margin.
Negotiating optimum product cost with suppliers and mitigating any annual inflation.
Demonstrating great communication skills to all levels, from our stores to the CEO.
Knowing and understanding the relevant market and category performance, delivering meaningful updates by category to the business.
Owning end to end supplier performance to ensure uninterrupted supply and the best possible commercials.
Liaising with Supply Chain, Food Development, Marketing and Operations Teams to drive a profitable product range.
Liaising with the Product Technologist/Food Developer in setting the quality criteria for products, ensuring the optimal balance between quality and price is maintained.
Securing additional funds to support instore and marketing activities.
Exploring global supplier agreements across our international territories.
Providing category management support to the additional 2 brands within the Caffè Nero Group (Coffee#1 and Harris + Hoole) where required.
Deputise for the Head of Procurement & Category Management (when required).
Help drive improved processes and support the journey of developing a more mature procurement function.

Strong and relevant experience gained from working in a procurement/buying role within the retail, hospitality, or food & beverage sectors.
Category Management experience - this is a must!
Solid evidence of being an excellent negotiator, influencer, and deal maker, who can obtain value for the business, making the best use of budgets.
An analytical and methodical approach to problem solving and great attention to detail.
Great communication skills, whether that's presenting, or taking a flexible and adaptable approach with our stores, suppliers and colleagues.
Experience working with field/operations/store teams to deliver in-store activity.
Ability to run reports, analyse complex data and make category decisions to drive forward sales and margin.
A collaborative and supportive coaching style.
Ability to manage time and priorities.
Will be proactive, take the initiative and have a growth mindset.
Aspirations to develop and grow into a Head of Procurement in the coming years.

We are looking for a Senior Category Buying Manager to join us at Caffè Nero. The role is based at our offices in Covent Garden, with a typical weekly working pattern of 3 office days and 2 days worked remotely (including suppliers/stores/home).

Our great benefits:
A wonderful place to work! With 3 out of 5 days based in our Head Office, right in the middle of bustling Covent Garden.
Access to our benefits platform, giving you loads of discounts and freebies at the touch of a button.
25 days holiday per annum (plus bank holidays), which increases with service.
50% employee discount on handcrafted drinks and 40% employee discount on food
Private medical care through Vitality.
Medicash (cash plan healthcare scheme).
Life Assurance.
Supporting our team members to achieve their professional goals is important to us, so alongside your day to day work you may have an opportunity to complete a professional qualification with our learning partners.
Free hand-crafted drinks whilst you're in the office - in your first week you'll have Barista training, so you'll know how to make the very best Caffè Nero coffee.