Job Description
An excellent opportunity for a Buying Assistant to work for a leading business in home décor. They have been trading for over 40 years and sell everything from Beds, Chairs, cushions/throws, etc. Due to growth they are seeking a Buying Assistant.
Responsibilities
* Develop and manage the critical path for all product launches for the range and own label, ensuring timelines are met from concept to delivery.
* Track product progress across supply chain stages, maintaining smooth communication between suppliers and customers.
* Include progress of gold seal tracking, packing approval, customer range review samples, etc.
* Identify and resolve delays proactively with the team to keep projects on schedule.
* Create and complete spec files for all products ready to pass on to QC team and ensure they are updated into the critical path.
* Manage photography samples and track inline with the studio timeline.
* Support with costing sheets for customers, creating quote sheets with photographs ready for the sales team.
* Support the buyer with supplier communication to gather pricing, lead times, and MOQs while maintaining quality and margin goals.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers through daily communication.
* Conduct range analysis based on sales data and create meaningful reports based on sell‑through, profitability, product category % mix and SKU counts to identify buying opportunities and avoid over‑stock or under‑stock situations across the range and own label.
* Work with merchandising team to deliver accurate forecasting and replenishment plans.
* Manage clearance and discontinued lines on a regular basis with costings and photos prepared for the sales team.
* Prepare detailed PowerPoint presentations based on market trends, in‑season promotional lines, trend photographs from trade fairs, etc.
* Handle trade fair preparations of samples and ticketing/pricing at Spring Fair and house events.
* Prepare samples for customer meetings in‑house and externally, including PowerPoint presentations.
* Collate competitor shop and market trends.
Qualifications
* Demonstrable experience in buying.
* Strong knowledge of critical path management tools and methodologies.
* Analytical mindset with a passion for market research and trend analysis.
* Excellent communication and negotiation skills with a track record of successful supplier management.
* Proficiency in relevant software, such as Excel, PLM systems, and project management tools.
* Detail‑oriented with exceptional organising skills.
* Passion for product and keen to work in a fast‑paced, hands‑on role within buying and merchandising.
Job Offer
Close to transport links.
Free parking.
Progression opportunities.
J-18808-Ljbffr