Assistant Buyer - Advanced Outwear 12 month FTC
Join to apply for the Assistant Buyer - Advanced Outwear 12 month FTC role at M&S Corporate Gifts
Assistant Buyer - Advanced Outwear 12 month FTC
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Join to apply for the Assistant Buyer - Advanced Outwear 12 month FTC role at M&S Corporate Gifts
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Team Clothing, Home & Beauty
Store London Support Office
Location London, Greater London
Contract type Permanent
Position type Full Time
Salary Competitive + Benefits
Closing date: 6th May 2025
* Intro
* About the role
* People Stories
* Make Your Mark
* Colleague Networks
* Benefits
* How to Apply
Apply now
How We Hire
Everyone is welcome at M&S. No exceptions. It’s your background, abilities and differences that make you, uniquely you. And when you’re part of M&S, that individuality has the potential to make waves.
About The Role
This section tells you all you need to know about the position and its responsibilities, outlining everything we hope to see in a successful candidate.
Summary
From Merchandising and Marketing - Product Development and Design, through to Supply Chain and Space Planning - our mission is to bring stylish wardrobe, home and beauty essentials to our customers via an easy, inspiring shopping experience online and in store that will delight them every time.
As we accelerate the transformation of our business to suit the changing needs of our customer, we need results-orientated colleagues that not only have a passion for our product, but a strong team working ethos, creativity and a healthy commercial aim to join us on our journey.
To stay close to customers, our support teams are in the office three days a week as we believe that skills are developed through collaboration, and that spending time together makes us more creative and connected.
All the details
What’s In It For You
Being a part of M&S is exactly that – playing your part to bring the magic of M&S to our customers every day. We’re an inclusive, dynamic, exciting, and ever evolving business built on doing the right thing and bringing exceptional quality, value, service to every customer, whenever, wherever and however they want to shop with us.
Here are some of the benefits we offer that make working for M&S just that little bit more special…
* After completing your probationary period, you’ll receive 20% colleague discount across all M&S products and many of our third-party brands for you and a member of your household.
* Competitive holiday entitlement with the potential to buy extra holiday days!
* Discretionary bonus schemes awarded based on how you achieve your personal objectives and our performance as a business.
* A generous Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and Life Assurance.
* A dedicated welcome to our teams with a tailored induction and a wide range of training programmes to develop your skills.
* Amazing perks and discounts via our M&S Choices portal to maximise your financial and personal wellbeing.
* Industry-leading parental, adoption and neonatal policies, providing support and flexibility for your family.
* Access to a fantastic range of wellbeing support for all colleagues including access to our 24/7 Virtual GP and PAM Assist to support you and your family.
* A charity volunteer day to support a charity or cause you're passionate about through a dedicated day away from work.
To stay close to customers, we expect our support teams to come into the office three days a week. We think that learning comes from working alongside each other, and that spending time with our teams makes us more creative and connected. It also means we can solve problems as soon as they arise, build trust, and get closer to our colleagues.
What You’ll Do
As an Assistant Buyer Advanced on Womenswear Outerwear your key accountabilities will include
* Support the Buyer by displaying a clear understanding of M&S’ customer, ensuring the segments and demographics needs are understood and put at the heart of the product offer developed
* Support the Buyer working with Design to interpret and adapt to market trends and direction, ensuring that the conceptual range developed is differentiating and targeted to the needs of the customer
* Work with the Buyer to analyse historical sales in line with trends and design direction to manage product mix parameters including price architecture, colour balance, shape and margin to deliver a highly commercial and balanced range
* Promote and support the collaboration with Sourcing Offices globally to help develop appropriate supply routes enabling the Department to react to trade, as well as negotiating the best prices and lead times with supplier to achieve the gross margin buying target
* To support the Buyer with the co-ordination and development of product Tech Packs, working with Design, Technology and Sourcing Offices to achieve better hit rates and taking accountability to ensure Tech Packs are delivered complete and on time to minimise sampling lead times
* To work with the Buyer to manage the departmental critical path (including supporting approvals), providing guidance and direction to junior members of the Buying team as well as other participants in the buying and product development process. To own and drive the production critical path.
* Manage BAAs to ensure efficient product & sample management across the buying floor in order to meet all H&S regulations. Support BAA training and development to help upskill teams.
* To actively participate in coordinating and presenting the range for sign-off and effectively managing systemic elements of the buying process, ensuring the timely completion of relevant systemic approvals and processes
* To demonstrate good knowledge of the Departmental finished goods and materials supply base and support processes to ensure M&S’ scale and buying power is fully leveraged
* To work with Buyer in setting and delivering the strategy for the department
* To develop strong working relationships with, and understanding of, external roles such as merchandising, technical, design as well as building networks across the wider structure
Who You Are
Your skills and experience will include
* Experience working to at least Established Assistant Buyer level in a fashion retailer.
* Experience in Womenswear & Outerwear
* Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate junior members of the team and communicate with Global Sourcing Offices and influence internal and external stakeholders
* Experience of cost price negotiations and global sourcing
* Critical Path Management
* Highly organised and self-motivated, accustomed to leading by example and taking the initiative
* Proactive in agreeing to take on Buyer responsibilities
* Role model for BAAs and strong interpersonal skills, capable of managing vertically and laterally
Everyone’s welcome
We are ambitious about the future of retail. We’re disrupting, innovating and leading the industry into a more
conscientious, inspiring digital era. We’re transforming how we work together and offering our most exciting
opportunities yet. Marks & Spencer strives to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. Join us and make change happen.
We are committed to building diverse and representative teams, where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and be at their best. We support each other and work together to win together.
If you feel you'd benefit from any support or reasonable adjustments during any stage of the recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to let us know when completing your application. This information will be picked up by our team, so we can try and put steps in place to help you be at your best through this process.
#hybrid
Being an in-person business
We're at our best when we're close to customers, and for many of us at M&S, that means working in store every day.
To stay close to customers, our support teams are in the office three days a week as we believe that skills are developed through collaboration, and that spending time together makes us more creative and connected. It also means we can solve problems as soon as they arise, learn and grow as a team, build trust, and get closer to our colleagues.
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Adam
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Kadeem
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Adam
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Kadeem
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Adam
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Kadeem
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Merchandising is all about getting the right stock, in the right place, in the right quantities, to drive up profit. So I like getting out to stores, seeing the products on display and hearing what customers are saying. That helps me to seize the moment and capitalise on current opportunities to go way beyond forecast.
Adam (He / Him) | Junior Merchandiser Read full story
I am fascinated by fashion trends but for me it really makes sense when I see the sales figures on screen. When I’m able to paint the picture with percentages, we can be more innovative as a team.
Kadeem (He / Him) | Assistant Merchandiser Read full story
Merchandising is all about getting the right stock, in the right place, in the right quantities, to drive up profit. So I like getting out to stores, seeing the products on display and hearing what customers are saying. That helps me to seize the moment and capitalise on current opportunities to go way beyond forecast.
Adam (He / Him) | Junior Merchandiser Read full story
I am fascinated by fashion trends but for me it really makes sense when I see the sales figures on screen. When I’m able to paint the picture with percentages, we can be more innovative as a team.
Kadeem (He / Him) | Assistant Merchandiser Read full story
Merchandising is all about getting the right stock, in the right place, in the right quantities, to drive up profit. So I like getting out to stores, seeing the products on display and hearing what customers are saying. That helps me to seize the moment and capitalise on current opportunities to go way beyond forecast.
Adam (He / Him) | Junior Merchandiser Read full story
I am fascinated by fashion trends but for me it really makes sense when I see the sales figures on screen. When I’m able to paint the picture with percentages, we can be more innovative as a team.
Kadeem (He / Him) | Assistant Merchandiser Read full story
1 of 2
End of quote slider carousel
Make Your Mark
Opportunities to be heard
Your voice matters here. You can share your ideas ‘Straight to Stuart’, our CEO, or get involved in our BIG (Business involvement Group). Our colleague networks are also great places to find support, listen to each other and encourage debate.
Experience the business
We’re passionate about our customers and colleagues. To get closer to our customers and see how they feel about our products, we work in our stores 7 days per year. And we visit our suppliers nationally and internationally to learn more about the quality and craft behind them.
Click to skip Colleague Networks slider carousel
Colleague Networks
We want you to feel supported, no matter what.
1 of 8
Health and Wellbeing Network
Providing a safe space for colleagues with all types of health conditions or disabilities and supporting with business initiatives to ensure our stores are truly accessible for our customers.
Menopause Network
Initiating and encouraging open conversations about menopause by offering support and sharing experiences.
The LGBTQ+ Network
Open to all members of the LGBTQ+ community and spectrum (and their allies), we promote equality, celebrate inclusivity and diversity, and encourage everyone to be themselves - whatever their sexual or gender identity.
The Cancer Network
This is a network driven by personal experiences, with the purpose of ensuring that anyone in the M&S family affected by Cancer feels supported and has access to the information they need.
The Family & Carers Network
This group represents the different types of families that exist. We act as a support network and sounding board for ideas which help our colleagues as parents or carers. We also run an interactive blog, where you can write your own posts or hear about others' experiences.
The Gender Equality Network
This group is focused on helping to create a workplace where gender-related challenges are addressed. They raise awareness of common barriers faced and offer support. They also challenge the business to act and empower individuals to ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Forces Community Network
Supporting colleagues connected to the Armed Forces, aiding their transition to civilian life, and ensuring that they thrive in the workplace.
Culture and Heritage Network
Raising awareness of various religions and cultures through events and comms, to educate others and better represent our M&S colleagues and customers.
Health and Wellbeing Network
Providing a safe space for colleagues with all types of health conditions or disabilities and supporting with business initiatives to ensure our stores are truly accessible for our customers.
Menopause Network
Initiating and encouraging open conversations about menopause by offering support and sharing experiences.
The LGBTQ+ Network
Open to all members of the LGBTQ+ community and spectrum (and their allies), we promote equality, celebrate inclusivity and diversity, and encourage everyone to be themselves - whatever their sexual or gender identity.
The Cancer Network
This is a network driven by personal experiences, with the purpose of ensuring that anyone in the M&S family affected by Cancer feels supported and has access to the information they need.
The Family & Carers Network
This group represents the different types of families that exist. We act as a support network and sounding board for ideas which help our colleagues as parents or carers. We also run an interactive blog, where you can write your own posts or hear about others' experiences.
The Gender Equality Network
This group is focused on helping to create a workplace where gender-related challenges are addressed. They raise awareness of common barriers faced and offer support. They also challenge the business to act and empower individuals to ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Forces Community Network
Supporting colleagues connected to the Armed Forces, aiding their transition to civilian life, and ensuring that they thrive in the workplace.
Culture and Heritage Network
Raising awareness of various religions and cultures through events and comms, to educate others and better represent our M&S colleagues and customers.
Health and Wellbeing Network
Providing a safe space for colleagues with all types of health conditions or disabilities and supporting with business initiatives to ensure our stores are truly accessible for our customers.
Menopause Network
Initiating and encouraging open conversations about menopause by offering support and sharing experiences.
The LGBTQ+ Network
Open to all members of the LGBTQ+ community and spectrum (and their allies), we promote equality, celebrate inclusivity and diversity, and encourage everyone to be themselves - whatever their sexual or gender identity.
The Cancer Network
This is a network driven by personal experiences, with the purpose of ensuring that anyone in the M&S family affected by Cancer feels supported and has access to the information they need.
The Family & Carers Network
This group represents the different types of families that exist. We act as a support network and sounding board for ideas which help our colleagues as parents or carers. We also run an interactive blog, where you can write your own posts or hear about others' experiences.
The Gender Equality Network
This group is focused on helping to create a workplace where gender-related challenges are addressed. They raise awareness of common barriers faced and offer support. They also challenge the business to act and empower individuals to ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Forces Community Network
Supporting colleagues connected to the Armed Forces, aiding their transition to civilian life, and ensuring that they thrive in the workplace.
Culture and Heritage Network
Raising awareness of various religions and cultures through events and comms, to educate others and better represent our M&S colleagues and customers.
End of slider Colleague Networks carousel
Benefits
Wellbeing hub
Get access to resources to support your wellbeing, including a free virtual GP service.
Giving back
Support your favourite charities by donating through your pay or even volunteering for them.
Pay
Earn a competitive salary.
Colleague discount
After completing your probation period, you'll receive 20% colleague discount across all M&S products and many of our third-party brands for you and a member of your household.
Please note only contracts of more than 12 weeks are eligible for this benefit.
Time off
Competitive holiday entitlement with the potential to buy extra holiday days.
Bonus
We have discretionary bonus schemes depending on your role and our business performance.
Life assurance
Get cover for twice your salary up to age 70 (double with our Pension Plan).
Workplace savings
We’ll help you save through our Pension Savings Plan, Share Buy and Sharesave schemes.
My Choices
Save on everyday costs through discounts and offers and get access to great health benefits.
Cycle to work
Bike/accessory hire with Cycle to Work and save on tax and national insurance.
Smart tech
Buy the latest technology with interest-free financing directly from your salary.
Family friendly policy
Industry-leading maternity, paternity, adoption and neo-natal policies, providing support and flexibility for you and your family.
* Wellbeing hub
Get access to resources to support your wellbeing, including a free virtual GP service.
* Giving back
Support your favourite charities by donating through your pay or even volunteering for them.
* Pay
Earn a competitive salary.
* Colleague discount
After completing your probation period, you'll receive 20% colleague discount across all M&S products and many of our third-party brands for you and a member of your household.
Please note only contracts of more than 12 weeks are eligible for this benefit.
* Time off
Competitive holiday entitlement with the potential to buy extra holiday days.
* Bonus
We have discretionary bonus schemes depending on your role and our business performance.
* Life assurance
Get cover for twice your salary up to age 70 (double with our Pension Plan).
* Workplace savings
We’ll help you save through our Pension Savings Plan, Share Buy and Sharesave schemes.
* My Choices
Save on everyday costs through discounts and offers and get access to great health benefits.
* Cycle to work
Bike/accessory hire with Cycle to Work and save on tax and national insurance.
* Smart tech
Buy the latest technology with interest-free financing directly from your salary.
* Family friendly policy
Industry-leading maternity, paternity, adoption and neo-natal policies, providing support and flexibility for you and your family.
* Wellbeing hub
* Giving back
* Pay
* Colleague discount
* Time off
* Bonus
* Life assurance
* Workplace savings
* My Choices
* Cycle to work
* Smart tech
* Family friendly policy
How to Apply
Here’s what to expect at each stage of the application process. This can change depending on the role you’ve applied to. If you need any reasonable adjustments made at any stage, let us know and we can help.
Send us your application
Fill in our short application form and hit submit.
Online assessment
We’ll invite you to take part in an online assessment. This could be before or after your interview.
Interview
We'll invite you to join us for an interview. This could be remote or in person. Here, we'll ask you some role based technical questions and examine the behaviours we're looking for.
Decision
After we’ve decided, we’ll be in touch. If you’ve been successful, we’ll officially invite you to join the team and let you know the next steps.
Assistant Buyer - Advanced Outwear 12 month FTC
Team Clothing, Home & Beauty
Store London Support Office
Location London, Greater London
Contract type Permanent
Position type Full Time
Salary Competitive + Benefits
Closing date: 6th May 2025
Reference: 95111
Apply now
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