Overview:

The Head of Merchandise & Buying for Big C Mini will lead the end-to-end merchandise strategy, assortment planning, supplier negotiations, and category management for the convenience store format. This role is crucial in shaping Big C Mini’s identity as a preferred local convenience destination, aligning merchandise offerings with consumer demand, driving sales growth, margin improvement, and enhancing customer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute the overall merchandising and buying strategy aligned with Big C Mini’s business goals.
• Define product mix, assortment strategy, and space allocation across key categories (FMCG, fresh food, impulse, household, etc.).
• Champion customer-centric, data-driven category plans based on market trends, customer insights, and sales performance.

• Lead negotiations with suppliers to optimize cost of goods, terms, and promotional support.
• Develop strategic partnerships with key brands, local suppliers, and private label vendors.
• Ensure effective supplier performance management, including SLAs, delivery, quality, and innovation.

• Lead and mentor a team of category managers, buyers, and merchandising analysts.
• Work cross-functionally with Operations, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Store Planning to ensure executional excellence.
• Drive pricing and promotional strategies that are competitive and margin-accretive.
• Develop and grow Big C Mini’s private label portfolio to support differentiation and value offering.
• Monitor market dynamics to maintain competitive pricing and product availability.

• Leverage data analytics and store clustering to optimize SKU productivity and planogram execution.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Over 15 years of experience in merchandising, buying, or category management in the retail industry; at least 7 years in a senior leadership role in the convenience or small-format retail sector.
• Proven track record in leading successful merchandising transformations and supplier negotiations.
• Strong analytical, commercial, and leadership skills.
• Deep understanding of Thai consumer behavior, retail trends, and competitive landscape (preferred).
• Proficient in merchandising systems, data analytics tools, and space management software.