Senior Assistant Buyer - Womenswear

BODEN; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in fashion is seeking a Senior Assistant Buyer to support product development and manage supplier relationships. This role requires creativity, attention to detail, and proficiency in Excel. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment and have a passion for buying. Join us in shaping our product range and ensuring timely deliveries while maintaining quality standards.

Qualifications

• Passion for a career in Buying.
• Experience working collaboratively within a team.
• Some retail or administrative experience.

Responsibilities

• Support product development by collaborating with internal teams and suppliers.
• Oversee the critical path process to meet key dates.
• Manage the Admin Assistant to meet deadlines.

Skills

Creativity

Attention to Detail

Clear Communication

Problem Solving

Time Management

Multitasking

Tools

Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

Stylish, grounded, uplifting - these values live through everything we do at Boden. Without the collaboration, honesty and friendship between our teams, we wouldn't be where we are today. We curate a world of beauty that's ethical, inclusive - and importantly - good fun. We inspire you to live your best life. We are Boden.

Overview

The Senior Assistant Buyer reports to the Buyer and is responsible for assisting in managing the department. This includes managing the Admin Assistant, negotiation, supplier communication, overseeing the department's critical path, and systems administration to ensure deadlines are met.

Location: 4-5 days per week based at our North Acton Office.

What You Will Do

• Support the development of our product by working closely with internal teams and suppliers.
• Collaborate with Designers, Techs, and Merchandisers to ensure designs align with the Product Framework and offer a balanced, wearable range.
• Understand the Boden brand and customer across all trading regions; monitor and analyze competitors' prices and activities regularly.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the Buying cycle.
• Assist in creating a robust seasonal Framework.
• Support the Buyer in building a balanced, commercial, customer-focused, and on-brand range considering all markets.
• Understand cost and fabric prices, set target prices, and negotiate with suppliers to meet margin targets with support from the Buyers.
• Oversee the critical path process to meet key dates, taking actions to avoid delays or air shipments.
• Ensure timely deliveries, communicate delays promptly, and offer solutions.
• Set up order confirmation sheets and communicate with suppliers.
• Ensure development packs and samples meet deadlines.
• Attend fit sessions to deputize for the Junior Buyer/Buyer when needed, ensuring styles deliver the best fit and flatter, considering core blocks, customer reviews, and fabrics.
• Manage the Admin Assistant to meet deadlines and maintain quality standards.
• Hold weekly 121s with your Admin Assistant to coach and develop them.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal teams for smooth department operations.
• Keep systems up to date and accurate with the help of your Admin Assistant.
• Set up production BOMs and ensure all information is accurate before placing orders.

What We Are Looking For

• Passion for a career in Buying.
• Creativity and keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Experience working collaboratively within a team.
• Some retail or administrative experience.
• Organized, adaptable, and enjoys challenges.
• Clear communication skills.
• Good problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent time management.
• Ability to multitask.
• Ability to work independently.