Buying and Supply Chain Manager

About us

At Wonderbly Group, our mission is to connect the world through our personalized gift books. We create books that inspire self-belief in children and celebrate love in all relationships. Our books have reached over ten million readers, making them the center of their own stories. Our core brands are Wonderbly and Historic Newspapers. Now part of Penguin Random House, we operate at the intersection of print-on-demand, personalization, and D2C e-commerce. We were nominated for UK Publisher and UK Children's Publisher of the Year in 2025 and previously won the latter in 2021. This group-level role offers the chance to work across both brands, contributing to two innovative businesses within Penguin Random House.

We are seeking a proactive, commercially-minded Buying & Supply Chain Manager to oversee procurement and supply chain operations. You will coordinate product, design, logistics, and finance to ensure projects stay on track, on time, and within budget. This role suits someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, balancing big-picture strategy with detailed execution.

What You'll Be Doing New Product Development

• Partner with Design and Trade/Marketing to develop new products from concept to launch.
• Serve as the main contact for operations during product development.
• Communicate timelines, milestones, and responsibilities clearly to keep projects moving.
• Ensure products meet quality, commercial, and compliance standards before release.

Stock Management

• Own inventory planning and continuously improve strategies.
• Ensure optimal stock levels and placement.
• Manage demand planning aligned with product and trading calendars.
• Monitor slow-moving stock and over/understock issues, recommending actions.
• Oversee stock counts and coordinate with warehouses.

Budget & Cashflow

• Manage the supply chain budget and optimize spending.
• Track upcoming payments and commitments to suppliers.
• Collaborate with finance on procurement-related cash flow.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or delivery.

Sourcing & Commercials

• Negotiate with global suppliers for favorable terms.
• Develop strong supplier relationships, managing contracts and SLAs.
• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs and address issues promptly.
• Anticipate supply chain risks and develop contingency plans.

Finance & Forecasting

• Work with Trade and Sales teams on forecasts and procurement plans.
• Use sales data to inform buying decisions.
• Provide regular performance reports and trend analysis to stakeholders.

Critical Path & Project Management

• Manage the critical path from procurement to delivery.
• Keep projects aligned with key dates and launches.
• Utilize project management tools to monitor progress and mitigate risks.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams for smooth execution.

B2B Shipping

• Oversee global and domestic B2B shipments, ensuring timely delivery.
• Collaborate with freight, customs, and warehouse partners.
• Stay updated on international shipping regulations and Incoterms.
• Maintain processes for large-scale orders and compliance.

What We're Looking For

• 4+ years' experience in buying, supply chain, or procurement.
• Background in fast-paced e-commerce or fashion sectors.
• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills.
• Data-driven with excellent forecasting and financial skills.
• Experience managing complex projects and critical paths.
• Effective communicator in cross-functional teams.
• Bonus: international logistics, customs, and trade compliance experience.

Why Join Us?

Join Wonderbly to be part of a mission-driven company creating personalized products worldwide. You'll work with diverse, motivated people in a profitable, responsible, B-Corp certified business with clear processes and a supportive culture. We're growing and aim to deepen customer relationships through our books.

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary + bonus
• Remote work up to 5 weeks/year
• 28 days holiday + bank holidays
• Hybrid working model
• Pension with matched contributions
• Mental health support with Spill
• Charity day each month
• £500 annual learning budget
• Health insurance
• Subsidized gym membership
• Regular social events, studio amenities, and community activities