Head of Buying & Category Management 100% (all genders)

About K. Lee Trading GmbH

K. Lee Trading GmbH, a family-owned company based in Zurich, specialises in importing and distributing Korean and Japanese food and cosmetics. Our growing retail network includes the popular YumiHana and YumiHana Beauty stores, offering a wide selection of authentic Korean and Japanese products.

We are looking for a dedicated and versatile professional to join and lead our Buying & Category Management team, starting immediately or by agreement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement buying and category strategies

• Manage the product range in coordination with senior management responsible for Sales & Marketing

• Identify, select and evaluate international suppliers, with a focus on Korea and Japan

• Negotiate prices, delivery terms and framework agreements

• Ensure product quality, reliable supply and compliance with import, food and cosmetics regulations

• Build and maintain long-term supplier relationships

• Attend international trade fairs and industry events

• Drive organisational and team development

• Lead and manage a team of six employees

• Coordinate with Logistics, Sales, Marketing, and Quality & Data Management

• Determine buying requirements, manage orders and coordinate import processes

• Monitor delivery schedules and manage supplier claims

• Analyse purchasing KPIs and report to senior management

Qualifications

• Completed commercial vocational training or a degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, International Business or a related field

• At least three years of experience in international buying and category management, ideally involving imports from East Asia

• Experience managing a team of at least three to five employees

• Excellent written and spoken English

• German, Korean and/or Japanese are an advantage but not essential

• Knowledge of the food and cosmetics sectors is an advantage

• Experience with personal care products, household goods or merchandise is an advantage

• Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of contract law and import procedures

Personal Competencies

• Cross-cultural awareness and a diplomatic approach

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills

• Ability to see the bigger picture, combined with a structured and strategic approach to work

• Resilience, flexibility and sound decision-making skills

• A collaborative mindset and strong leadership skills characterised by empathy, clarity and fairness

Benefits

• Employee discounts on our product range & partner companies.

• Home Office options supporting hybrid work.

• Additional vacation days.

• Flexible working hours.

Your application

We look forward to receiving your application, including your cover letter, CV, employment references and relevant certificates, as well as your salary expectations. If you have any questions, please contact us via the messaging function.