At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Raw Material Buying team with orders and liaise with suppliers.
- Company: Join a fast-paced fashion and apparel environment at our Head Office in South Shields.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a discretionary bonus scheme, and a subsidised canteen.
- Other info: This is an 18-month fixed-term contract with opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Gain a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship while working closely with the Chief Buyer.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 4 in English and Maths; good IT skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Raw Material Buying Apprentice to join our Supply Chain team based at our Head Office in South Shields. During this apprenticeship, the successful candidate will support the Raw Material Buying team across all aspects of the buying process within a fast-paced fashion and apparel environment, while working towards a recognised qualification.
Responsibilities:
- Raising internal and external customer orders allocating costs to the appropriate department.
- Upkeep of our M3 System.
- Confirming Purchase Orders as instructed by the Buyers.
- Liaising with suppliers on outstanding orders and overdue orders.
- Upkeep of trim sample library.
- Assisting buyers on Trim and branding developments.
- Ensuring Trim / Branding developments are received on time.
- Liaising with the design team on trim and branding approvals.
- Maintain and develop productive working relationships with the raw material supply base.
- Build strong working relationships with all areas of the business in particular design and development, garment technology.
- Working with the Chief Buyer on global forecasting documents.
- Undertake any other reasonable activity, as may be required by senior management with Buying.
Qualifications:
- Good IT skills including use of Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to build strong relationships both internally and externally.
- Ability to work under pressure, within closely managed deadlines.
- Sound problem solving and decision-making skills.
- Applicants must hold a minimum of Level 4 in both English and Maths to meet the apprenticeship eligibility criteria.
Additional Information:
- This role is offered on a temporary basis through an 18-month fixed-term contract.
- The successful candidate will work towards a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship.
- Discretionary Company bonus scheme.
- Staff discount.
- Staff shop.
- 25 days holiday as standard increasing with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata).
- Free onsite parking.
- Subsidised canteen.
- Healthcare Cash Plan.
- Access to training and development activities to support your career development.
- 4pm finish on a Friday.
- Wellbeing support.
- Refer a friend bonus scheme.
- Reward & Recognition Program.
- Length of Service Rewards.
Note: In the event that a sufficient volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
Raw Material Buying Apprentice employer: J Barbour & Sons Ltd
The company offers a dynamic work environment in the fashion industry, located in South Shields. Employees benefit from a healthcare cash plan and a staff discount, fostering a supportive atmosphere for personal growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Raw Material Buying Apprentice
✨Get to Know the Designers
Fashion is all about creativity and flair, so immerse yourself in the community! Attend local fashion shows, workshops, and designer exhibitions to not only learn about the latest trends but also to mingle and network with industry professionals. Who knows, you might bump into someone from J Barbour & Sons Ltd!
✨Make Your Work Visible
Start building a portfolio showcasing your designs or projects, even if they’re just ideas sketched out on paper. Share your work on social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest—these are buzzing with fashion enthusiasts and you could catch the eye of a recruiter from J Barbour & Sons Ltd. Plus, it’s a great way to demonstrate your aesthetic and skills!
✨Tap into University Resources
If you're near or at uni, make the most of your career services! They often have connections in the fashion industry, and can help you land an apprenticeship that suits you. Look out for guest lectures or workshops by industry professionals, which could lead to valuable contacts.
✨Don't Underestimate Informal Channels
Join fashion-focused online communities or forums, where apprentices and professionals share opportunities and advice. This is also a good way to hear about any lesser-known openings at brands like J Barbour & Sons Ltd before they even go live. Make sure to engage and share your thoughts—visibility goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Raw Material Buying Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:For a role in fashion-apparel, it's super important to let your personality and style shine through in your application. Consider including any design work, styling projects, or even a mood board that showcases your aesthetic. It's all about expressing your creativity!
Tailor Your CV to Fashion:When we’re looking at CVs in the fashion world, it's crucial to highlight relevant experience. Even if it’s just personal projects or volunteer work, make sure to note any roles where your fashion sense and creativity have shone through. Mention skills like garment construction, fashion illustration, or trend research if you've dabbled in them.
Express Your Passion in the Cover Letter:Your cover letter should scream passion! Talk about why you love fashion and what you've learned from your experiences so far. As it's an apprenticeship, we want to see your eagerness to learn and grow within the industry. Let us know what inspires you and how you see your future in fashion!
Include Your Portfolio (if you have one):If you’ve done any design work or styling before, make sure to mention it! A portfolio can really set you apart in fashion. It doesn’t have to be fancy; even a simple collection of images or sketches showcasing your work can be impressive. If you have a social media account dedicated to your fashion work, don’t hesitate to share that too!
How to prepare for a job interview at J Barbour & Sons Ltd
✨Showcase Your Style Sense
In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style speaks volumes. Make sure you bring along a portfolio that showcases not just your best work, but also any personal projects or outfits you've styled. This will give us insight into your design sensibility and creativity, which are crucial for an apprenticeship at J Barbour & Sons Ltd.
✨Be Ready for Hands-On Tasks
Expect practical tasks during your interview, like styling a quick outfit or even sketching a design on the spot. This is a great way for us to see your skills in action and how you think on your feet. Brush up on your technical knowledge too; knowing your fabrics, cuts, and current trends can really impress us!
✨Emphasise Your Learning Attitude
As an apprentice, the key is your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Be prepared to discuss what you've already taught yourself about the industry, and don’t hesitate to showcase your passion. We’re looking for someone who’s eager to absorb knowledge and grow with J Barbour & Sons Ltd.
✨Connect with the Brand's Vision
Familiarise yourself with J Barbour & Sons Ltd’s aesthetic and recent collections. We want to see that you understand the brand within the wider industry context. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to our vision and any ideas you might have for future collections or styles that resonate with our ethos!
