Buyer - Spares and Accessories

About Wattbike Ltd

Wattbike Ltd is a progressive brand widely recognized for its advanced indoor cycling technology, trusted by leading sports teams including Premier League clubs, NFL, and national rugby teams, as well as numerous fitness enthusiasts worldwide. The company is committed to innovation and excellence in the fitness industry.

Role Summary

Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, the Spares and Accessories Category Manager will be responsible for comprehensive planning, procurement, and managing the merchandising strategy of Wattbike's spares and accessories. The role supports both direct sales to consumers and business clients across the UK, US, and Australia, ensuring optimal product availability, pricing strategy, and inventory control to enhance commercial outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the spares and accessories category's profit and loss, overseeing revenue, gross margin, cost of goods sold, and overall financial contribution.
• Set and monitor yearly budgets and growth objectives in alignment with the Finance team and present progress during monthly business reviews.
• Manage the product portfolio to maintain competitive pricing, commercial viability, and alignment with both current and forthcoming Wattbike products, including handling new product introductions and phase-outs.
• Identify and capitalize on new sales opportunities such as expanding product ranges, bundling accessories, and upselling, leading from sourcing to launch.
• Engage in sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing from approved suppliers, maintaining strong relationships for optimal pricing, lead times, and quality compliance.
• Create and maintain accurate demand forecasts by analyzing sales history, customer service trends, warranty claims, and seasonal factors, translating these into procurement strategies.
• Manage inventory levels across all spare parts and accessories SKUs, performing stock assessments, setting reorder and safety stock thresholds, and addressing slow-moving or obsolete stock issues.
• Collaborate extensively across teams including Customer Service, Operations, and Ecommerce to align on demand, logistics, online merchandising, and promotional activities.
• Oversee supply and stock allocation to third-party repair and service centers, ensuring accurate reporting and identifying improvement areas.
• Deliver regular reports on category financial performance, inventory metrics, supplier reliability, sell-through rates, and product line profitability to senior leadership.
• Maintain high data accuracy within ERP and inventory systems and lead process enhancements to improve planning, reporting, and stock management efficiency.

Experience and Performance Metrics

• Proven track record managing category P&L responsibilities including financial planning and delivery.
• Experience in category management, procurement, or buying within product-driven, ecommerce, or manufacturing sectors with strong supplier negotiation skills.
• Skilled in demand planning and inventory control with high forecast accuracy and maintained stock availability.
• Demonstrated ability to generate and implement commercial growth strategies and new revenue initiatives successfully.
• Strong relationship management with suppliers, ensuring high on-time delivery and performance improvement.
• Proficiency in ERP and inventory management tools; strong analytical skills using Excel or similar software; Shopify experience advantageous.
• Effective cross-department collaboration and stakeholder communication in dynamic environments.
• Knowledge of fitness equipment or related product categories including spare parts and warranty management highly desirable.

Education

A bachelor’s degree in Business or equivalent experience is required. A CIPS qualification or progress towards it is preferred.

Benefits

• 26 days annual holiday plus bank holidays
• Contributory pension scheme and complimentary life insurance coverage
• Loan of a Wattbike for home use
• Access to onsite training facilities and cycling/running groups
• Continuous support for career development and progression