This is a hybrid based role, we are looking for candidates to be based within commutable distance to Northampton or to Bridgwater

Here at Toolstation, we have been busy developing and expanding our Commercial Category and Buying Team. Which is why we have not one but four opportunities for talented Category Assistants who are looking to grow their career in product categories and buying. Are you a detail-oriented individual with excellent communication skills, a passion for data analysis and an interest in product and customer insight? This role is the entry level to building a rewarding buying career as part of a high growth, fast paced retailer. You might already be working towards an apprenticeship in Buying and Merchandising or you might be keen to start one.

As a Category Assistant, your primary responsibility will be to support the Category Manager in developing and growing your assigned product categories. Our categories are wide ranging in Toolstation - everything from tools to electrical products to kitchens, painting and decoration and much more. You will play a crucial role in ensuring effective communication with suppliers and internal stakeholders, utilising your excellent verbal and written skills. Additionally, you will assist in the preparation and maintenance of commercial plans, conducting presentations, updating reports, managing product data and pricing files, and handling general administrative tasks. Whilst you will be starting at a grass roots level in this role, you will learn all about the exciting world of category management, buying and customer insight.

Day-to-day

Collaborate with the Category Manager to develop and execute strategies for category growth and profitability.

Liaise with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth communication and timely resolution of any issues.

Prepare and maintain commercial plans, ensuring accuracy and alignment with overall business objectives.

Update and prepare reports to analyse category performance, sales trends, and market insights.

Maintain accurate product data and pricing files, ensuring information is up to date and readily accessible.

Assist with general administrative tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of the category management function.

Highly personable and detail focused, you’ll be right at home in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment and pride yourself on your attention to detail. When it comes to building relationships you’re one of the best and are comfortable liaising at all levels of the business. This is an administration role in the main with lots of data to input, manage and analyse, so the following skills are essential.

Detail-oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.

Proficient computer skills, specifically in Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Google Suite.

Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, understanding the value of working together to achieve common goals.

Experience in a similar commercial role would be preferable but is not essential. What is important is that you have an understanding of how a commercial team operates and the impact you would make.

You’ll find every opportunity to be yourself and to bring your personality and potential to work. Wherever you join us there will be opportunities to take your career wherever you want – up the ladder, across the business or into another role in the Travis Perkins Group. And because we want to do our best for you, you’ll be supported all the way with training and development – including access to our very own Toolstation Academy programmes.

Plus, you'll receive some of the best benefits in retail. So, as well as 26 days’ holidays + Bank Holidays, company pension scheme and life assurance, we offer a bonus scheme, cycle to work scheme, save and buy as you earn, 20% discounts across all Travis Perkins companies, education and support, recognition awards and discounts at over 1000 other retailers.

Toolstation. The story so far.

We’re one of Britain’s fastest growing multi-channel retailers of tools, accessories and building supplies and an integral part of Travis Perkins plc. The trade, home improvers and self-builders all trust us to deliver a lot more than tools. Our store expansion programme and the size and diversity of our Group, means we always have opportunities for ambitious people who want to grow with us.

To apply

Caught your interest? Want to know more? Take a look at www.toolstationjobs.com or simply hit apply

Our policy is to employ the best qualified people and provide equal opportunity for the advancement of employees including promotion and training and not to discriminate against any person because of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, religion, belief or disability. #TS