Giftware Buying Assistant — Sourcing & Seasonal Range

Chessington Garden Centre; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Chessington Garden Centre is seeking an experienced Buying Assistant to support the development of Giftware and Seasonal departments. You will work closely with the Buyer to source exciting new products, develop ranges and ensure offerings are right on price and timing.

The role involves supplier relationship management, PO processing, pricing support, and assisting with trade shows to expand product ranges and market opportunities.

Qualifications

• Experience in buying, purchasing or buying support
• Retail/wholesale background preferred
• Giftware, homeware, lifestyle or consumer-focused environment preferred
• Able to manage multiple priorities
• Confident in communicating and negotiating with suppliers
• Able to analyse sales and pricing data
• Willing to travel to trade shows and supplier appointments
• Passionate about products, trends and retail
• Experience with giftware/seasonal buying and attending trade shows would be an advantage

Responsibilities

• Support product selection, range building and seasonal planning
• Research new products, suppliers, trends and market opportunities
• Build strong relationships with suppliers
• Manage purchase orders and monitor deliveries
• Support pricing, product margins and commercial decisions
• Review sales and product performance
• Assist with seasonal launches, promotions and range changes
• Keep up to date with the latest retail and giftware trends
• Represent the business at UK and overseas trade shows and supplier visits

Skills

Commercial mindset

Customer focus

Organised

Supplier negotiation

Pricing analysis

Trend awareness

Travel for trade shows

Job description

Chessington Garden Centre is seeking an experienced Buying Assistant to support the development of Giftware and Seasonal departments. You will work closely with the Buyer to source exciting new products, develop ranges and ensure offerings are right on price and timing.

The role involves supplier relationship management, PO processing, pricing support, and assisting with trade shows to expand product ranges and market opportunities.