Position: Kitchen & Food Buyer
Employment Type: Full-time (Hybrid)
Overview
This role is responsible for managing the buying function for kitchen-related products within a multi-channel retail business, including live commerce platforms. The position involves identifying market trends, sourcing products, and developing sales strategies to drive category growth and profitability.
Key Responsibilities
Product Sourcing & Trend Analysis
Analyze domestic and international market trends to identify high-potential products and brands
Conduct competitor research and attend trade shows and industry events
Vendor Management
Negotiate pricing, contracts, and commercial terms with suppliers
Build and maintain strong relationships with existing vendors while developing new partnerships
Sales & Merchandising Strategy
Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., content production, marketing) to develop effective sales strategies
Plan product launches and coordinate promotional or broadcast schedules
Manage inventory planning, as well as sales and profit performance
Product Development
Contribute to the planning and development of new products and category expansion initiatives
Candidate Profile
Experience
Minimum 3 years of buying experience, preferably in kitchenware or related product categories
Strong interest in sourcing new products and expanding product portfolios
Skills
Strong negotiation and relationship management abilities
Commercial awareness with a good understanding of product trends
Ability to work cross-functionally in a dynamic environment
Role Highlights
Opportunity to deliver products through a storytelling-driven sales approach
Real-time visibility into customer response via live commerce channels
Exposure to large-scale sales impact beyond traditional buying roles
High level of autonomy to discover and grow new product brands
Working Conditions
Work Style: Hybrid (combination of office and remote work; regular in-office attendance required)
Travel: Occasional domestic and international travel for vendor visits and trade shows
Location
Office based in the Tokyo metropolitan area (hybrid working model)