Junior Buyer in Bury

At GO Outdoors our purpose is strong and clear; “to inspire and equip everyone for life outdoors”. That’s because we passionately believe in the positive benefits of the outdoors, whether that be the daily dog walk or hiking Ben Nevis, horse riding or cold water therapy, we provide the best equipment for all outdoor activities, always at the best price guaranteed!

Our values aren’t just posters on the wall, we live them every day; ‘One Team ‘we are stronger together’, ‘Responsibility ‘we take ownership’, ‘Passion ‘we believe in what we do’ and ‘Integrity ‘we do the right thing’. Clear values which help us to fulfil our mission to be ‘the nations favourite outdoor retailer’. If you share our passion and want to make a difference join our team to be a part of something ‘unbeatable’!

Responsible to: Associate Director of Buying – Soft Goods Department.

Outdoors Buying & Merchandising Hours: 40 Hours Location: Bury HQ with Travel Required

Role Overview

The JD Outdoors Group is the UK’s leading outdoor retail group, encompassing iconic brands including GO Outdoors, Blacks and Millets. With a focus on inspiring and equipping customers for outdoor adventure, we are committed to offering quality products, exceptional value, and expert advice. As part of the JD Group PLC family, we are poised for strategic growth, innovation, and market leadership.

As a Junior Buyer for Childrenswear & Accessories Products, you will support the Buying team in delivering a compelling and profitable product range across JD Outdoors stores and online. You will work closely with suppliers, internal teams, and the buying management team to ensure the right product mix is available at the right time, aligning with market trends and customer demand.

Key Responsibilities

• Planning, building and maintaining a strong childrenswear and accessories range that reflects JD Outdoors’ brand identity and customer profile.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure timely delivery, negotiate terms and costs to achieve the best possible margin, and maintain strong relationships.
• Monitor trading, sales performance, stock levels, and margins, providing insights and recommendations to optimise profitability.
• Support the Associate Director in making informed decisions on pricing, markdowns, and promotional activity to protect and enhance margin.
• Research market trends, competitor activity, and customer preferences to inform buying decisions.
• Monitor and manage the product lifecycle from order placement to delivery, ensuring adherence to critical path timelines to avoid delays and maximise availability.
• Manage purchase orders, product data, and ensure accurate system updates.
• Work closely with Merchandising, Marketing, Retail and Digital teams to maximise product visibility and sales.

Key Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience in a buying or merchandising support role at Junior Buyer or Assistant Buyer level.
• Previous experience in an own brand, branded apparel environment is preferred.
• Strong commercial awareness and understanding of apparel trends, preferably childrenswear and accessories experience.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and ability to manage critical paths.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel essential) and comfortable with data analysis.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.

Due to the high volumes of applications our opportunities attract, it takes time to review them all. If you don’t hear back within two weeks of you applying, please consider your application to have been unsuccessful on this occasion. Applications that meet the skills criteria will be contacted for a 1st stage meeting with the talent team. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to interview with the hiring manager. Thank you again for your time.