At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the buying process for trendy activewear, ensuring products align with brand identity.
- Company: Join AYBL, a top women's activewear brand on a mission to empower through fitness.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, 25 days holiday, and a 50% staff discount.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with excellent career growth and employee wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-growing brand and make a real impact in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of buying experience in fashion and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Ranked #1 fastest-growing private company in The Sunday Times 100 2022, AYBL has quickly become one of the most iconic women’s activewear brands worldwide. We are a passionate, innovative and ambitious brand on a mission to empower women through the power of fitness. Based in the UK, we are dedicated to providing premium, yet affordable activewear that encompasses our ‘Together we thrive’ ethos. We’re constantly on the lookout for new people who are equally ambitious, share our core values and consider themselves the best in their field. If this sounds like you and you’ve got what it takes to help push AYBL to the next level, this could be the place for you. The opportunities right now are limitless. We are looking to hire genuine people who demonstrate authenticity and a unique way of thinking. As we grow, you’ll grow too.
AYBL are looking for an exceptionally talented Buyer to be responsible for leading the end-to-end buying process across both Men’s and Womenswear. This person will ensure that product ranges are commercially viable, on-trend, and aligned with brand identity and business objectives. The Buyer will partner with Design and Merch to build strong supplier relationships, drive margin, manage critical path and analyse trading performance to create profitable, customer-focused ranges.
Key Responsibilities- Range Planning & Development: Lead range planning in line with brand strategy, market trends, and customer insights. Source, select, and develop products that maximise sales, profitability, and market competitiveness. Responsible for all product and packaging approvals through all stages of critical path to a high standard. Ensure the balance of core, fashion, and seasonal pieces across categories.
- Supplier Management & Negotiation: Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and new suppliers globally. Negotiate cost prices & MOQs to maximise margin. Work with our Sourcing team to ensure suppliers comply with ethical, legal, and sustainability standards.
- Commercial & Financial Accountability: Understand departmental OTB and ensure adherence to budgets. Work with merchandising team to monitor category sales, stock levels, and profitability. Make data-driven decisions to optimise performance.
- Market & Trend Analysis: Stay up to date with fashion trends, competitor activity, and consumer behaviour. Use trend forecasting, trade shows, and market research to identify new opportunities. Provide creative input to influence product direction.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with Design, Merchandising, Marketing, Sourcing & Tech to deliver cohesive collections in line with the critical path and planning cycle.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- 5+ years of buying experience in the fashion/clothing industry.
- Strong supplier base and knowledge of global sourcing regions.
- Proven track record of delivering profitable ranges within tight deadlines.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and influencing skills.
- Highly analytical with strong commercial acumen.
- Proficient in range planning, margin management, and budget control.
- Understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and production processes.
- Strong IT skills, including Excel and buying/planning systems (e.g., PLM, ERP).
Key Competencies:
- Commercial awareness and customer focus.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
- People management.
- Creativity and trend awareness.
- Resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Discretionary yearly bonus.
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays + your birthday off.
- Flexible working.
- 35 working hours per week with 1 hour lunch break.
- 50% staff discount across AYBL Group.
- Social events.
- Pension scheme.
- Free on-site parking.
- Free gym membership.
- £100 gift card upon joining.
- Employee wellbeing support.
Location: Our home is located in Redditch, South Birmingham, with easy access routes to the M5/M42, a 20-minute walk to the train station, as well as many bus routes. Not forgetting Arrow Valley Lake which is a stone’s throw away and a beautiful spot to get those steps in or enjoy your lunch with a view.
Buyer in Redditch employer: AYBL
AYBL is an exceptional employer that champions a vibrant and inclusive work culture, dedicated to empowering women through fitness. With a focus on employee growth, we offer limitless opportunities for career advancement alongside generous benefits such as flexible working hours, a discretionary yearly bonus, and a supportive environment that prioritises wellbeing. Located in Redditch, our office is easily accessible and surrounded by beautiful outdoor spaces, making it an ideal place to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer in Redditch
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get that interview, let your authentic self shine through. AYBL is all about empowerment and uniqueness, so don’t be afraid to share your creative ideas and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Do your homework! Research AYBL’s latest collections, trends, and values before your interview. Being knowledgeable about the brand will not only impress them but also help you tailor your answers to align with their ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the AYBL family. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer in Redditch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role and our brand shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about empowering women through fitness and fashion.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Buyer role. Highlight your relevant experience in buying, supplier management, and trend analysis. We love seeing how your unique skills can help us push AYBL to the next level!
Be Authentic:We value authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share your unique way of thinking and how it aligns with our ethos of 'Together we thrive'.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role as quickly as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at AYBL
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into AYBL's product range and understand their market positioning. Familiarise yourself with current fashion trends, competitor brands, and customer preferences. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commercial awareness and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Buyer, you'll need to make data-driven decisions. Prepare examples of how you've used analytics in past roles to optimise product ranges or improve profitability. Bring along any relevant reports or insights that highlight your analytical prowess and ability to drive results.
✨Build Rapport with Suppliers
Since supplier management is key, be ready to discuss your experience in building strong relationships. Share specific examples of successful negotiations or collaborations that led to better margins or innovative product developments. This will showcase your interpersonal skills and strategic thinking.
✨Embrace Creativity and Trends
AYBL values creativity and trend awareness, so come prepared with ideas for potential product lines or improvements. Discuss how you stay updated on fashion trends and how you can contribute creatively to the brand's vision. This will highlight your passion for the industry and your fit within their culture.