At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Buyer in managing Bags, Accessories & Jewellery operations and analyse sales data.
- Company: Join the iconic Harvey Nichols team in a vibrant fashion environment.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in luxury fashion buying with a competitive salary.
- Other info: Opportunity to learn from industry experts and grow your career in luxury retail.
- Why this job: Dive into the world of fashion and make an impact on buying strategies.
- Qualifications: Passion for fashion, strong communication skills, and analytical mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Harvey Nichols is seeking an Assistant Buyer to join our Bags, Accessories & Jewellery team based at our Knightsbridge Head Office. This is a Fixed Term Contract for 12 months.
As Assistant Buyer, you will support and deputise for the Buyer in all operations of the Buying function through the effective administration of the department and the production of regular sales, stock margin, markdown and delivery information to meet agreed departmental objectives.
- Administration
- Ensure that all departmental information records are accurately set up and maintained and regularly reviewed with the Buyer.
- Review and discuss delivery schedules regularly with Merchandiser/Buyer to ensure stock is delivered in accordance with orders and cancel stock where necessary / negotiate discounts.
- Record, review and analyse weekly stock and sales information and, based on this information, make recommendations for relevant action to the Buyer.
- Ensure the accurate production of regular ad-hoc reports and analysis.
- Produce sales history at brand and departmental level to enable the Buyer to produce range plans and buying strategies.
- Buying
- Liaise with Department Managers on a weekly basis to ensure familiarity with the ranges, highlighting key brands and fashion trends and reviewing best and worst sellers by line.
- Liaise with the sales teams regarding the visual presentation of the product.
- Produce regular comparative shopping reports, demonstrating a thorough knowledge of competitor activity.
- As requested by the Buyer, assist in the review of potential Suppliers.
- Assist the Buyer in identifying seasonal trends.
- Assist the Buyer on the market to gain an understanding of the general principles of buying.
- Prepare analysis and sales information for buying appointments.
- Attend buying appointments throughout the year, when required, to resource and select a commercial range, travelling in and outside of the UK when required.
- Management
- Supervise, train and motivate the Buying Administrator.
- Responsible for the day-to-day running of the department.
- Communicate with Merchandising, selling departments, systems, the warehouse and suppliers as necessary to identify and resolve any problems.
- Communicate and liaise with all internal teams and areas of the business; ensure product selection & strategy is communicated internally, visiting stores as required.
Qualifications
- Passionate about fashion buying.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Natural team builder.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Proficient in MS Office, Excel & PowerPoint.
- Good knowledge of Harvey Nichols brands and customers.
- Keeps up to date with the latest trends.
- Loves all things luxury fashion and accessories.
Assistant Buyer - Bags, Accessories & Jewellery (MAT COVER 12 MONTHS) employer: Harvey Nichols
Harvey Nichols is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that thrives on creativity and collaboration within the luxury fashion sector. Located in the heart of Knightsbridge, employees benefit from a dynamic environment that encourages professional growth through hands-on experience in buying and trend analysis, alongside opportunities to engage with high-end brands. With a commitment to employee development and a passion for fashion, Harvey Nichols provides a rewarding career path for those looking to make a significant impact in the retail industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer - Bags, Accessories & Jewellery (MAT COVER 12 MONTHS)
✨Get Your Foot in the Door Early
In retail, many temporary roles pop up during peak seasons, like Christmas or summer sales. Keep an eye on the calendars for these spikes and start scouting for opportunities a bit in advance. We can even help you stay sharp on your search!
✨Utilise Local Connections
Visit local shops in person and chat with managers about potential temporary openings. Many retail positions are filled by word-of-mouth, so don’t underestimate the power of a good conversation while you grab a coffee or do your weekly shopping!
✨Show Off Your Availability
Retail managers love flexibility! Make sure to highlight your availability in a casual chat or when you apply through our website. The more open you are to work varied shifts, the more likely they are to bring you on board—especially for temporary gigs!
✨Be Ready for On-the-Spot Interviews
When you walk into a shop, be prepared for the possibility of an on-the-spot interview. Dress comfortably but smartly, have a few key points about your experience ready, and be enthusiastic. Remember, it’s all about making that positive first impression!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer - Bags, Accessories & Jewellery (MAT COVER 12 MONTHS)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:In retail, customer service is key! Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you've got, whether it’s casual jobs or volunteer work. Employers want to see that you can interact well with customers, so think about any instances where you've gone the extra mile to help someone out.
Flexibility Is Your Best Friend:Since this is a temporary position, you should emphasise your flexibility in your application. Mention your availability clearly in your cover letter and CV—employers love knowing they can rely on you to work varied hours, especially during busy periods!
Keep It Short and Sweet:For temporary roles, we don’t need an essay! Keep your CV and cover letter concise, focusing on the most relevant experiences and skills. Highlight any specific retail achievements, like sales targets met or product knowledge that demonstrates your eagerness to dive straight in.
Tailor Your Application to Harvey Nichols:Don’t forget to personalise your application for Harvey Nichols! Take a look at their values and product range, and if you’ve had previous experience with similar brands, mention that. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and have a good understanding of what they do.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harvey Nichols
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In retail, it's all about customer interaction, so be ready to share examples of how you've handled tough customer situations. We recommend thinking through a couple of scenarios before the interview where you went above and beyond to help a customer, as these can really make you stand out.
✨Brush Up on Product Knowledge
Temporary roles often have a steep learning curve because you'll need to pick up product knowledge fast. Take some time to familiarise yourself with the main products or services that Harvey Nichols offers, and if possible, try to understand their current promotions. It’ll give you the edge to engage customers effectively.
✨Flexibility is Key
Being in a temporary retail role means you may need to adapt quickly to different tasks or shifts. Be prepared to highlight your flexibility and willingness to take on varied responsibilities during the interview. Think of examples where you've had to juggle multiple tasks at once – that’ll show you're a great fit for the dynamic retail environment.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since retail roles often require collaboration, be ready to showcase your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you worked well with colleagues, especially in fast-paced situations. This will underline your ability to slot into the team at Harvey Nichols and contribute positively during your temporary stint.
