Buying and Merchandising Assistant

TN United Kingdom; Chesterfield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Buying and Merchandising Assistant to join their dynamic team in Chesterfield. This role involves managing product launches, tracking supply chain progress, and conducting market analysis to identify buying opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and negotiation skills, along with a passion for merchandising. You will work closely with suppliers and the merchandising team to ensure timely delivery and maintain quality standards. With opportunities for progression and a supportive work environment, this position is perfect for those looking to grow in the retail sector.

Benefits

Close to transport links

Free parking

Progression opportunities

Early finish on Fridays

Qualifications

• Experience in merchandising and buying is essential.
• Proficiency in critical path management tools is required.
• Strong analytical mindset with a passion for market research.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the critical path for product launches.
• Conduct range analysis based on sales data to identify buying opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers through daily communication.

Skills

Merchandising

Buying

Critical Path Management

Market Research

Trend Analysis

Communication Skills

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Organizational Skills

Excel Proficiency

Tools

PLM Systems

Project Management Tools

Job description

Buying and Merchandising Assistant, Chesterfield

Client: Page Personnel

Location: Chesterfield, United Kingdom

Job Category: Retail

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 55a2eb9e7811

Job Views: 5

Posted: 05.05.2025

Expiry Date: 19.06.2025

Job Description

• Develop and manage the critical path for all product launches, ensuring timelines are met from concept to delivery.
• Track product progress across supply chain stages, maintaining communication between suppliers and customers.
• Manage progress of tracking, packing approval, customer range review samples, etc.
• Identify and resolve delays proactively to keep projects on schedule.
• Create and update spec files for products, passing them to the QC team.
• Manage photography samples and track them according to studio timelines.
• Support with costing sheets and quotes, including photographs for the sales team.
• Assist buyers with supplier communication regarding pricing, lead times, and MOQs, maintaining quality and margins.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers through daily communication.
• Conduct range analysis based on sales data, creating reports on sell-through, profitability, and SKU counts to identify buying opportunities and manage stock levels.
• Work with the merchandising team on forecasting and replenishment plans.
• Manage clearance and discontinued lines, preparing costings and photos for the sales team.
• Prepare PowerPoint presentations based on market trends, promotional lines, and trade fair insights.
• Assist in trade fair preparations, including samples, ticketing, and pricing.
• Prepare samples and presentations for customer meetings.
• Gather market intelligence through competitor shop analysis and trend research.

The Successful Applicant

• Experience in merchandising and buying.
• 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 successful supplier management experience.
• Proficiency in Excel, PLM systems, and project management tools.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Passion for product and enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced buying and merchandising environment.

What's on Offer

Close to transport links, free parking, progression opportunities, early finish on Fridays.