Trading Controller

Location: Willenhall (West Midlands)
Salary: Competitive, plus Company Car (or Car Allowance) plus excellent benefits package

We have an exciting opportunity for a Trading Controller, who is passionate about their role in offering excellent service and standards to our customers. We are looking for someone who is motivated, friendly, and able to work on their own initiative and able to raise concerns where appropriate.

The key purpose of this role is to maximise sales, cash margin and percentage GP within a range of defined commodity groups through effective negotiations, promotions, and range management. It also involves optimising the supply chain to ensure full availability of the product range whilst working within agreed stock holding parameters, specifically the stock value targets set by the business. Short dated, quarantined and eliminated stock must be controlled to ensure minimal impact to the bottom line.

The Role

Deliver annual sales, profit and supplier income in line with the budgeted ask
Negotiate an annual JBP for all key suppliers, incorporating a planned promotional activity plan which is effective, competitive and supplier funded, driving the performance of sales and cash profit for the group
Negotiate annual trading terms which are favourable to the previous trading year with all key suppliers, delivering the budgeted supplier income number
Develop new initiatives and areas of business which will drive incremental sales and cash profit year on year
Maintain prices in line with Wholesale and Retail policies
Work in conjunction with Sales and Operational teams across the business to ensure all areas are profitable
Source, interpret and make recommendations relating to any significant market changes that may impact performance in the market for the defined areas of control
Work internally with supply chain and externally with suppliers to forecast stock requirements including promotions and seasonal fluctuations

What We're Looking For

Minimum of 5 years as a Buyer / Trader within a leading Wholesaler or Retailer — a combination of both is highly desirable
Experience within the Fresh sector is preferable
Previous experience in a similar role managing people, with a track record of success, is essential
Demonstrable experience in managing categories from procurement of stock through to marketing and delivery to the consumer
Excellent industry knowledge, including specific product knowledge, to deliver a targeted offering to customers
Experience of negotiating with senior personnel within 'Blue Chip' suppliers

Who Are We

We are a dynamic and innovative retail, wholesale and foodservice business, committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and staying at the forefront of industry trends. A company that now owns 303 SPAR convenience stores and employs more than 6,000 people, with a turnover of £1.3 billion.

What's In It For You

Develop your skills and capability in a highly supportive and multi-diverse culture
Outstanding training & development
Gain hands-on experience in a high volume, fast paced environment
Excellent benefits package including:
Holiday, maternity and paternity leave and pay in excess of statutory entitlements
Generous staff discount in all our SPAR stores (excl. alcohol & cigarettes)
Proactive promotion of internal candidates
24/7 access to your payslips and rotas via HR/Payroll portal
Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice
Company pension scheme
NEST pension scheme
Company life insurance worth 1 x annual salary and 6 x annual salary with company pension scheme
Extra holidays – purchase scheme
Long service awards

As a Disability Confident Committed employer, we are dedicated to creating a fair, inclusive workplace for all. We offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role.

You may have experience in the following: Trading Controller, Category Manager, Buyer, Senior Buyer, Trading Manager, Category Buyer, Commercial Buyer, Procurement Manager, Fresh Category Manager, Wholesale Trading Manager, Retail Buyer, Supply Chain Manager