With over 20 years of experience in the retail industry, I am a strategic leader and a creative buyer who oversees the buying and merchandising of related products for Waterstones, the UK's leading bookseller. I have a passion for delivering innovative and customer-focused solutions that drive growth and profitability.As the Head of Buying and Merchandising, I manage a portfolio of 14 departments and 50 categories, ranging from stationery and giftware to games and puzzles. I am responsible for the P&L, OTB, the range planning, the supplier sourcing and negotiation, and the leadership and development of a team of buyers, merchandisers, operations staff. I also collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of products across 300 stores, three brands, and three websites. I have a proven track record of creating and executing retail strategies that exceed business KPIs, as well as developing and designing products that reflect the Waterstones brand and appeal to a diverse and loyal customer base.