Trainee Buyer

Next Careers; Leicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK fashion retailer is seeking a Trainee Buyer for its Leicester office. This graduate role includes working closely with the Buying department, managing supplier relationships, analyzing market trends, and assisting with product development. Candidates should have a passion for the fashion industry and a relevant Buying or Fashion qualification. This full-time position requires immediate start and flexibility for onsite work. An application with a tailored cover letter is essential.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience within the fashion industry.
• Ability to communicate confidently with stakeholders.
• Ability to manage workload flexibly at pace.

Responsibilities

• Monitor market trends and competitors.
• Assist in pricing and analysis with Buyers.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and issue purchase orders.
• Conduct research and present findings for product decisions.
• Prepare for meetings and manage sample tracking.

Skills

Fashion industry knowledge

Trend awareness

Commercial awareness

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Buying/Fashion qualification

Job description

Prepare to be part of a dynamic, hard‑working, collaborative and inspirational team creating and bringing products to market season after season for our iconic British brand. You can expect a journey outlined with clear goals and aspirations shared by the whole business, whilst building cross‑collaborative relationships including the opportunity to work with our Founder, Tom Joule, and his senior team who have a wealth of knowledge to share.

Trainee Buyer – 2026 Graduate

Discover an exciting opportunity to take on an integral role here at Joules Head Office. This is a graduate position, with applications shortlisted in Spring 2026 for a summer 2026 start date. You will be following a devoted, product‑led and fast‑paced Trainee Buyer Development programme.

What to expect on a day‑to‑day basis

Your role of Trainee Buyer sits within our friendly and innovative Buying department.

• Trade: Keep your finger on the pulse of the market by staying up to date on competitors’ activities. Partner with the Merchandiser to analyse bestsellers, worst sellers and fast lines shaping the future of our ranges.
• Pricing & Benchmarking: Assist the Buyer in navigating market prices and compiling insightful analysis. Play a pivotal role in ensuring our pricing remains competitive and appealing to customers.
• Supply Base: Get to know our key suppliers, build strong relationships with them, issue purchase orders and ensure clear communication channels.
• Progress: Check in with our supply base weekly to ensure we’re hitting progress KPIs. Update crucial documents like BRP and key progress dates to keep everyone in the loop and on track.
• Samples: Manage the sample game, tracking and preparing our samples for meetings, from unpacking to labelling.
• Product Development: Conduct research and competitive shopping with the Buyer. Present findings in compelling reports that drive product development decisions.
• Meetings: Prepare for meetings by selecting the perfect products to showcase our latest offerings. Take notes and produce minutes.
• Team Structures & Buying Cycle: Learn the ins and outs of our product team and how each piece fits into the puzzle. Work hand‑in‑hand with teammates to keep the buying cycle running smoothly.
• Systems: Own our data management systems, ensuring accuracy and timeliness at every step.

About You

• Working toward a Buying/Fashion qualification and demonstrable experience within the fashion industry.
• Have a keen eye for spotting trends.
• Strong commercial awareness.
• Can work flexibly at pace and manage your own workload with confidence.
• Communicate confidently with key stakeholders at all levels.
• Have an eye for detail and an analytical approach.
• Prioritise tasks and bring new ideas to the team dynamic.

Values We Look For

• Interest in the fashion and retail industry.
• Fearlessly creative with ideas to share.
• Not afraid to fail and grow.
• Positivity for the future of our brand.
• Adaptability and openness to change.
• Collaborative spirit and willingness to give your all.
• Enjoy celebrating success.

Where you will be working

This full‑time role is based at The Barn – our Head Office in Market Harborough, Leicestershire – and will involve field work onsite at one of our stores or events.

Your Application

Due to the high volume of applications, we require a relevant cover letter. Please review our Joules Cover Letter advice to support your application.

Sponsorship

In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement. Joules does not hold a sponsor licence and cannot sponsor a candidate under the Skilled Worker route. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate the right to work without sponsorship.

Please note that we may close the advert early if we receive the required level of applications. This role requires an immediate start, so apply now for early consideration.

Location

Graduate Trainee – Leicester, England, UK