Buying: Matt Harrison

Name: Matt Harrison

Job: Buyer

Employer: ASDA

Area of work: Buying

Qualifications: BA business studies, Sheffield Hallam University

Before I joined the graduate scheme I completed a year’s placement with ASDA while at university, which gave me a great insight into retail. Since starting the scheme I launched a new white goods business as a project role, spent a year in marketing as an events manager, then moved into another buying placement in charge of DIY.

My job

When you buy for an established area like DIY, the challenge is to make it more attractive to customers – which means negotiating deals with suppliers so that we can pass on lower prices to our customers. We also look into new products: for example, I launched a keycutting service in our stores. The biggest part of the job, and something I do on a day-to-day basis, is negotiating with suppliers. Another important element is reporting on sales to the rest of the business. I normally start work around 7.00 am and look at sales reports. If there are any problems, this allows us to sort it out before lunchtime. I work until 5.00 or 6.00 pm. It might sound a lot but the hours are flexible and I really enjoy my work.

Being in charge

Buying allows you to be in charge of your own business and make real decisions. I’m also managing a trading assistant: it’s great to be managing people so early in my career.