Job Description
Hybrid Buying Administrator | Salford Quays, Manchester | Up to £30k DOE + Benefits
We are currently working with a growing, design-led business seeking a Buying Administrator to support their product development and buying function. This is an exciting opportunity to join a creative and collaborative business, where innovation, speed-to-market and quality are at the heart of what they do!
As a Buying Administrator, you'll play a key part in managing the order book, critical path, and supplier relationships while supporting the Buyer across multiple product categories. You'll work cross-functionally with Design, QA, Product Development, and Sales to deliver compelling, on-trend ranges into market.
Buying Administrator Key Responsibilities:
* Manage and maintain the product critical path and intake tracking
* Oversee purchase orders, shipping dates, and delivery discrepancies
* Lead weekly QA meetings with overseas teams and report to senior stakeholders
* Maintain key trackers including QA status and order documentation
* Raise and manage POs for all new supplier and customer orders
* Set up product codes, barcodes, and maintain range plans
* Coordinate and approve artwork briefs and packaging designs
* Oversee pre-production and sample approval process
* Manage the sample room and deliveries of new product samples
* Understand invoice reconciliation and packing lists
* Support the Buyer to ensure timely shipments align with intake targets
* Support relationship management with overseas suppliers
* Handle communication on non-compliance, delays, or quality issues
* Assist with sourcing and costing for new categories and customer leads
* Drive efficiency and lean ways of working in the buying team
* Work collaboratively across QA, Finance, Sales, Design, and Operations
* Be actively involved in trend research and product innovation alongside PD & Design
Buying Administrator requirements:
* 1 year minimum experience in a Buying or Product Development support role (toys, consumer goods, or retail desirable)
* Strong understanding of supply chain, order management, and supplier communication
* Excellent organisation, tracking and reporting skills
* Confident working with cross-functional teams and international suppliers
* Highly detail-oriented with a passion for product and process improvement
* Strong working knowledge of Excel and order management systems
* Proactive, positive, and adaptable to a fast-paced environment
Why Apply?
* Be part of a fun, product-focused business with exciting growth plans
* Get hands-on experience in end-to-end buying across a varied product range
* Collaborate with creative teams on innovative toy ranges
* Hybrid working and flexibility within a close-knit, supportive team
BBBH33389