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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage product launches and track progress across the supply chain.
- Company: Join a leading home décor business with over 40 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, close transport links, and great progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, making impactful decisions in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying and strong analytical skills are essential.
- Other info: Work closely with suppliers and contribute to exciting market trends.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Develop and manage the critical path for all product launches for the range as well as own label, ensuring timelines are met from concept to delivery. Track product progress across supply chain stages, maintaining smooth communication between suppliers and customers.
This will include progress of gold seal tracking, packing approval, customer range review samples etc. Identify and resolve delays proactively with the team to keep projects on schedule. Creation and completion of spec files for all products ready to pass on to QC team and ensure they are updated into the critical path. Management of photography samples and tracking inline with the studio timeline.
Support with costing sheets for customers creating quote sheets with photographs ready for the sales team. Support the buyer with supplier communication to gather pricing, lead times, and MOQs while maintaining quality and margin goals. Build and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers through daily communication.
Range analysis based on sales data and create meaningful reports based on sell thru, profitability, product category % mix and SKU counts to identify buying opportunities and avoid overstock or understock situations across the range as well as own label. Work with the merchandising team to deliver accurate forecasting and replenishment plans.
Management of the clearance and discontinued lines on a regular basis with costings and photos prepared for the sales team. Prepare detailed PowerPoint presentations based on market trends, in-season promotional lines, trend photographs from trade fairs etc. Trade fair preparations of samples and ticketing/pricing at Spring Fair and also in-house events.
Preparation of samples for customer meetings in-house and externally as well as preparation of PowerPoint presentations. Collation of comp shops and market trends.
Profile
- Demonstrable experience in buying
- Strong 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 a track record of successful supplier management
- Proficiency in relevant software, such as Excel, PLM systems, and project management tools
- Detail-oriented with exceptional organisational skills
- Passion for product and keen to work in fast-paced, hands-on role within buying and merchandising
Job Offer
- Close to transport links
- Free Parking
- Progression Opportunities
Contact Detail:
Michael Page Business Support Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buying Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with critical path management tools and methodologies. Understanding these concepts will not only help you in the interview but also demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your analytical skills by reviewing market trends and sales data relevant to home décor. Being able to discuss current trends and how they impact buying decisions will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the buying and merchandising field. Attend industry events or trade fairs to make connections that could provide insights into the role and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your communication and negotiation skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed supplier relationships or resolved issues, as these are key aspects of the Buying Assistant role.
We think you need these skills to ace Buying Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in buying and critical path management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills and supplier management experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for home décor and your understanding of the buying process. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your proficiency in software like Excel and project management tools. Provide examples of how you've used these tools to manage timelines and improve communication in previous roles.
Highlight Communication Abilities: Since the role requires strong communication skills, include examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or collaborated with teams to resolve issues and keep projects on track.
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page Business Support
✨Show Your Understanding of the Critical Path
Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge of critical path management during the interview. Discuss how you would develop and manage timelines for product launches, and be ready to provide examples from your past experience.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves maintaining smooth communication between suppliers and customers, emphasise your excellent communication skills. Share specific instances where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or resolved issues through effective communication.
✨Prepare for Analytical Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical mindset. Be prepared to discuss how you would analyse sales data and create reports to identify buying opportunities. Bring examples of how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Home Décor
Show your enthusiasm for the home décor industry. Research current trends and be ready to discuss them during the interview. This will not only show your passion but also your commitment to staying informed about the market.
