At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in sourcing and managing supplier relationships while supporting product purchasing.
- Company: Join Matalan, a dynamic retail innovator with an inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% staff discount, wellbeing support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow your career in a supportive and diverse workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values creativity and collaboration in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying and strong skills in Excel and PowerPoint required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Matalan: From humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, Matalan is ever-evolving. We know as a team, we are stronger together; we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth. We want to give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please don't hesitate to let us know. In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
About the role:
- Key Responsibilities:
- Assisting the product purchaser to manage the key line process including utilisation of e-auction technology.
- Creating strong relationships across the trading floor.
- Developing strong supplier relationships.
- Taking ownership of own key lines and supplier negotiation area.
- Creation of data summary sheets with an excellent level of accuracy.
- Managing the sending out of tech packs and samples to all suppliers working with the Trainee Product Purchaser.
- Assisting with preparation of any business E Auctions alongside Product Purchasers.
- Helping prepare and review any relevant E Auction analysis and file.
- Assisting with supplier face-to-face meetings and auctions with a growth plan of owning an area and negotiating that area with the Product Purchaser overseeing.
- Supporting the product purchaser with updating of any central documents.
- Supporting Product Purchaser on letter of intent/email confirmations.
- Managing and organising supplier matrix.
- Helping prepare keyline one-page analysis after each keyline season.
- Supporting Product Purchaser with supplier communication and negotiation.
- Partaking in benchmarking aimed at quality and country of manufacture preparing presentations to show findings.
- Supporting any ad hoc projects needed from the Product Purchasers.
- Gaining fabric and sustainability knowledge through attending training courses and liaising with buying teams/fabric team.
- Supporting team by having packaging knowledge for all product areas by working with the packaging teams.
- Supporting team by having knowledge of freight rates and duty by country of manufacture by working with the imports team/using range plans.
- Overseeing and supporting sample management of key lines.
- Managing sample management of key lines ensuring we have samples for each key line from suppliers negotiating.
- Managing supplier scorecards including set up and regular tracking.
- Supporting on supplier strategy.
- Supporting with supplier meeting set ups and any follow up as required.
- Supporting Product Purchaser to deliver KPIs.
- Working with Product Purchaser and Trainee Product Purchaser on all relevant tasks and projects.
Please note: internally this role is known as Assistant Product Purchaser.
About You:
- Background of buying multi product areas for a minimum of 1 year.
- Excellent Microsoft Excel / PowerPoint skills.
- Understanding of Supply Chain Management including raw material and production trends.
- Knowledge of sourcing strategies, supplier management and purchasing best practice.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills.
- Ability to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally with a focus on collaborating, tackling issues and managing risk.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, stakeholders and deadlines in a time pressured environment whilst maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Analytical thinking with the ability to provide information and analysis in a clear, concise and impactful way.
Benefits:
- 20% staff discount, which increases with length of service.
- Thrive Recognition Scheme.
- Wellbeing support provided by the Retail Trust.
- Life Assurance.
- Retail Rewards platform offering discounts for other retailers.
- Pension Scheme.
- Access to a wide range of career development.
- Additional benefits may apply depending on your role and area of the business.
Assistant Sourcing Specialist in Birkenhead employer: Matalan
Matalan is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment, where every team member is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. With a strong focus on employee growth, Matalan offers extensive career development opportunities alongside competitive benefits such as a generous staff discount and wellbeing support. Located in a dynamic retail setting, the role of Assistant Sourcing Specialist provides a unique chance to engage with diverse suppliers and contribute to innovative sourcing strategies, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Sourcing Specialist in Birkenhead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Matalan! Research their culture, values, and recent innovations. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since the role involves supplier management and negotiations, think of scenarios where you can showcase your skills. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about landing the Assistant Sourcing Specialist role.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Sourcing Specialist in Birkenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Assistant Sourcing Specialist role. Highlight your background in buying, supplier management, and any relevant achievements to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills, as well as your understanding of supply chain management. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their analytical thinking and negotiation prowess!
Apply Early!:We might close the application process early if we get a lot of great candidates, so don’t wait! Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Matalan
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sourcing strategies and supplier management. Familiarise yourself with Matalan's approach to retail and their commitment to inclusivity. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the company and the role.
✨Excel at Excel
Since the role requires excellent Microsoft Excel skills, practice using functions, pivot tables, and data analysis techniques. You might even want to prepare a small example of how you've used Excel in past roles to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can showcase your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with suppliers or colleagues in the past. Matalan values teamwork, so highlighting your ability to work well with others will be key.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The job involves managing multiple tasks and deadlines, so be ready to discuss how you handle pressure. Share specific instances where you've successfully managed competing priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and organisational skills.
