Buying & Merchandising Director

Are you passionate about shaping the future of e-commerce and driving strategic initiatives in the realm of buying? Do you possess a keen eye for market trends, a knack for negotiation, and a track record of delivering exceptional results? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you! We are excited to announce that fonQ is currently seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join our team as the Head of Buying. As a key leadership position within our organization, this role offers the chance to play a pivotal role in our growth and success.

About fonQ
fonQ is the online Home & Living specialist in the Netherlands and Flanders. We're not just about selling products; we're about creating exceptional experiences for our customers. With our extensive assortment, inspiration and excellent service, we make shopping in the Home & Living category fun and easy. We believe in innovation, creativity, and a passion for exceeding expectations. We're on the lookout for talented individuals who share our vision and drive to revolutionize the world of online shopping in Home & Living.

About the role
As the Head of Buying, you will be responsible for leading our category management team and driving our total buying strategy. In this role you will report to the CEO. You will leverage your expertise in market analysis, vendor relationships, product development and product assortment planning to ensure that we offer a diverse and compelling range of products to our customers. In addition, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to optimize inventory management, pricing strategies, and promotional initiatives.

What will you do?

• Develop and execute a strategic buying plan aligned with company objectives and market trends.
• Lead a team of 5-8 category managers / buying professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and support to drive performance and foster a culture of excellence.
• Lead the marketplace team & support staff.
• Identify and evaluate new vendors and suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and agreements to optimize product assortment and margins.
• Analyze sales data, customer feedback, and market trends to identify opportunities for product innovation and expansion.
• Collaborate with merchandising, marketing, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution of buying strategies and promotional campaigns.
• Monitor and manage inventory levels, pricing strategies, and product performance to maximize top & bottom-line results while minimizing risks.

You recognize yourself in this:

• Bachelor's or Master degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or related field.
• Min 10 years of experience in buying, merchandising, or related roles within the Home & Living industry.
• Proven track record of success in developing and executing strategic buying plans, driving revenue growth, and optimizing product assortment.
• Proven track record of success in sourcing, developing and executing Private Label strategy.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills, with a demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships with vendors and suppliers.
• Min 5 years of leadership experience, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve goals and exceed expectations.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and levels of the organization.

What we offer you

• Salary and 8% vacation pay
• 25 vacation days (and possibility to purchase additional days
• Pension plan
• Travel costs
• Phone allowance
• 20% personal discount on the fonQ assortment
• Gym discount at Onefit
• Daily fresh, attractively priced lunch in our lunchroom with roof terrace
• Space for new ideas and initiatives, regardless of your role
• A fun, informal work atmosphere with great colleagues and fonQy events

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful impact in the world of e-commerce, we want to hear from you! This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and innovative organization that is shaping the future of online shopping. If you would like to apply for the Buying & Merchandising Director position, please direct your response to HR. We look forward to reviewing your application and qualifying you for this exciting opportunity.

Thank you for your interest in joining the fonQ team!