At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Buyer in shaping M&S menswear collections and managing product strategies.
- Company: Join a leading fashion retailer known for exclusive collaborations and a dynamic team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% discount, competitive holidays, and tailored training from day one.
- Other info: Collaborative office environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that influences fashion trends and customer experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in branded buying and a passion for menswear are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our collaborations with some of the world's biggest brand names are helping us to reach an even broader audience. From exclusive collaborations with Adidas to brands we own like Jaeger, join our expanding team of fashion curators, and shape the future of M&S Clothing & Home.
As we accelerate the transformation of our business to suit the changing needs of our customer, we need results-orientated colleagues that not only have a passion for our product, but a strong team working ethos, creativity and a healthy commercial aim to join us on our journey. Please note this is a 12 month FTC.
To stay close to customers, our support teams are in the office three days a week as we believe that skills are developed through collaboration, and that spending time together makes us more creative and connected.
Working at M&S means being part of something bigger - helping to deliver quality, value and service to millions of customers every day. We're inclusive, fast-moving and always evolving, with a strong sense of purpose and a focus on doing the right thing. Here are just a few of the benefits that make working here even more rewarding:
- 20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you've completed your probation
- Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more
- Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours
- Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future
- Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one
- Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal
- Market-leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave
- 24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services
- One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you
As the Branded Assistant Buyer on Menswear your key accountabilities will include:
- Support the Buyer by displaying a clear understanding of M&S' customer, ensuring the segments and demographics needs are understood and put at the heart of the product offer developed
- Work with the Buyer to analyse historical sales in line with trends and design direction to manage product mix parameters including price architecture, colour balance, shape and margin to deliver a highly commercial and balanced range
- Create positive partnerships with our brands, establishing strong direct relationships quickly and leveraging these to develop a long-term benefit to M&S.
- Contribute as an active member of the Buying team to work within a commercially focussed culture
- Work with the Buyer to manage the departmental critical path (including supporting approvals), providing guidance and direction to junior members of the Buying team as well as other participants in the buying and global product development
- Own and drive the production critical path.
- Manage BAAs to ensure efficient product & sample management across the buying floor
- Work with Buyer in setting and delivering the strategy for the department
Your skills and experience will include:
- Relevant branded buying experience with a major retailer and a passion for menswear
- Strong negotiation experience
- Understanding of the concepts of brand strategy and knowledge of the current competitive market place
- Critical Path Management
- Highly organised and self-motivated, accustomed to leading by example and taking the initiative
- Role model for BAAs and strong interpersonal skills, capable of managing vertically and laterally
Assistant Buyer 3rd Party Brands - Menswear employer: Marks and Spencer
At M&S, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive and dynamic employer that values creativity and collaboration. As an Assistant Buyer for 3rd Party Brands in Menswear, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture with tailored training, competitive benefits including a generous colleague discount, and opportunities for personal growth within a fast-evolving retail environment. Join us in shaping the future of fashion while making a meaningful impact in a company that prioritises doing the right thing for our customers and communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer 3rd Party Brands - Menswear
✨Get in with Local Boutiques
Fashion isn't just about the big names; local boutiques are often on the lookout for temporary staff, especially during busy seasons. Pop in with your CV and a smile, chat with the staff, and show genuine interest – it can lead to an on-the-spot opportunity or, at the very least, a good contact!
✨Leverage Fashion Events
Fashion shows and local events are goldmines for networking. Attend as many as you can! Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, designers, or even models – you never know who might have a lead on temporary roles that aren't advertised yet.
✨Utilise Social Media Like a Pro
Follow brands and influencers in the fashion-apparel industry on social media. Engage with their content and stay updated on their hiring announcements. Many companies post about temporary positions on their Instagram or Twitter, so keep your eyes peeled!
✨Check Out Our Site for Temp Roles
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website for temp roles at companies like Marks and Spencer. We regularly update our listings, and your best shot at landing something is to jump on it as soon as it drops – so keep checking!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer 3rd Party Brands - Menswear
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:In the fashion-apparel world, creativity and personal style are key! Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique take on fashion—add a touch of personality, maybe even a mood board if you’re feeling adventurous. This is your chance to show how you’d fit into Marks and Spencer's vibe!
Highlight Relevant Experience:For a temporary role, experience is everything. If you've worked in retail, styling, or even as a personal shopper, make sure to highlight that in your application. We want to see how your past experiences can benefit Marks and Spencer during this short-term stint!
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:If you’ve got a portfolio—whether that's photos of your styling or designs—attach it! We love to see what you're capable of. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in temporary roles where you might need to make a quick impact at Marks and Spencer.
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Temporary roles often require juggling different tasks and adapting to changing needs. In your application, mention instances where you’ve showcased flexibility and quick learning. Showing that you’re ready to jump right in will surely catch our eye at Marks and Spencer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks and Spencer
✨Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, your personal style can speak volumes. Make sure to express your fashion sense in your outfit and show off any unique pieces that represent your style while keeping it professional. This gives the interviewers a glimpse of your creativity and flair.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
For a temporary role, it'll be essential to demonstrate your skills quickly. Have a well-curated portfolio that showcases your previous work, whether it's designs, styling, or merchandising. Be prepared to talk through your thought process and the impact your work has had in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Trend Talk
Expect questions about current fashion trends and how they relate to the brand Marks and Spencer. Being able to discuss recent runway looks, sustainable practices, or trending colours will show your knowledge of the industry and that you’re up-to-date with what's happening in fashion.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
In a temporary position, demonstrating that you can hit the ground running is key. Share experiences from previous roles where you've quickly adapted to new trends or tackled fast-paced environments. Your ability to be flexible shows that you're ready to contribute from day one!
