Category Buyer and ControllerLocation: Fully office based from Harlow, CM20 2BNSalary: £35,000 - £45,000 per annum, DOE + Excellent Benefits!Contract: Full time, PermanentBenefits: 28 days holiday (inclusive of Bank holidays) which increases with length of service up to 33 days, Employee Discount, Pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Free on-site gym, Free secure on-site parking, Great facilities with free tea/coffee and Company & ad-hoc team social eventsShape the Product Ranges Used by the UK's TradesITS (Industrial Tool Supplies) is one of the UK's leading independent retailers of power tools, hand tools, accessories, workwear and professional trade equipment.Established in 1979, we've grown from a single shop to a nationwide business with a high-performing ecommerce operation, major distribution hub, and expanding retail footprint.We're trusted by tradespeople, builders, plumbers, electricians, mechanics and serious DIYers who rely on us to stock the brands they know at prices they love.We're now looking for a Category Buyer and Controller with a genuine interest in tools, trade hardware, power tool accessories, plumbing fittings, fixings, automotive consumables and other products used daily by UK trades.This is not a general buying role, it's a chance to shape the categories that keep Britain working.About The Category Buyer and Controller RoleYou'll take ownership of categories specifically aligned to hands-on trades, helping us build market-leading ranges across:Hand tools (spanners, wrenches, chisels, screwdrivers)Power tool accessories (blades, bits, abrasives, cutting & drilling)Plumbing & heating consumablesAutomotive tools & workshop essentialsSite hardware, fixings, fasteners and trade consumablesYou'll use your product understanding and commercial instinct to build the right range at the right price keeping ITS ahead of competitors and trusted by the trades who shop with us every day.As our Category Controller, your responsibilities will include:Own your product categories and drive sales, margin and stock performanceBuild strong supplier relationships within hand tools, trade hardware, accessories, plumbing, automotive and related sectorsNegotiate buying terms that deliver competitive prices and strong margin returnsMaintain sharp, commercially focused pricing strategiesMonitor competitor brands, pricing, promotions and market activityEnsure strong stock availability through accurate forecasting and demand planningPlan and execute promotions across our website, catalogue and retail storesIdentify opportunities for bundles, add-ons, multipacks, trade deals and range improvementsWork closely with marketing, ecommerce, retail, purchasing and warehouse teamsSupport the introduction of new brands, emerging products and trade innovationsTo be successful in this role you must have:Proficiency working with data and spreadsheets including Excel and pivot tablesThe ability, experience and confidence to confidently negotiate and influence suppliersA commercially minded approach with strong market awarenessA strong ability to work well within a fast paced environmentGreat organisation skills with a sharp attention to detailIt would be great if you had:Experience in buying, merchandising, sales or a commercial roleKnowledge or interest in the tools, hardware, or construction industryIf you're a commercially minded, motivated, and looking for an opportunity to make a real impact in a fast-growing business, then please click APPLY today!No agencies please.JBRP1_UKTJ