Lead Buyer - Kidswear

We are looking for an experienced Lead Buyer, Kidswear to take ownership of one of our most visible and high impact categories. This is a key leadership role, blending hands on category buying with people leadership – leading a team of five direct reports. You will shape the Kidswear buying strategy, delivering compelling, trend led ranges that meet the everyday needs of Kiwi families while driving strong commercial performance. 

Bringing together commercial acumen, customer insight and data led decision making, you will influence product direction, pricing architecture, branded and own brand development and supplier partnerships – ensuring we consistently deliver quality, value and relevance at scale. 

You will be responsible for: 

• Range Ownership  Lead end to end buying across Kidswear, curating seasonal collections that balance trend, durability, value and financial targets. 

• Category Strategy  Shape and execute the long term buying strategy, ensuring alignment with brand ambition, customer expectations and broader business goals. 

• Private Label and Brand Development  Grow and evolve our own brand portfolio while building strong branded partnerships that enhance credibility and choice. 

• Trading and Commercial Performance  Maximise sales, margin and stock efficiency through strong promotional planning, swift trading decisions and proactive in season management. 

• Supplier Management and Negotiation  Lead strategic supplier relationships and negotiations – securing the best commercial and product outcomes. 

• Customer and Market Insights  Leverage data, trend forecasting and customer feedback to keep our ranges relevant, competitive and differentiated. 

• People Leadership  Coach, mentor and develop buying talent, fostering a collaborative, high performing and commercially sharp team culture. 

• Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing  Champion responsible sourcing practices, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and supporting our sustainability commitments.