Register Your Interest – Assistant Buyer

As an Assistant Buyer, you’ll work closely with the Buyer to ensure the department achieves sales, stock, and margin targets through product range development and maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Strategy

1. Work with the Buyer to produce reports supporting strategic decisions.
2. Conduct market and trend research for specific product ranges to inform strategy proposals.
3. Maintain current knowledge of Divisional and overall Matalan strategy.

Range Development for Defined Product Range

1. Collaborate with Buyer & Merchandising teams to shape the range aligned with departmental KPIs.
2. Work with Buyer and Designer to interpret trends and develop commercial ranges within strategic frameworks.
3. Bring insights and ideas to support wider range development.
4. Present ranges effectively, ensuring sample accuracy and margin delivery, with support from the Buyer.
5. Ensure pricing aligns with benchmarking and company strategy.
6. Understand the keyline process thoroughly.

Trading

1. Analyze trade using Monday Trading Reports.
2. Coordinate with TAB to ensure timely data and sample collection for Trade meetings.
3. Highlight best and worst performers, newness, problem lines, and opportunities, including commentary, during weekly Trade reviews.
4. Be knowledgeable about keylines, NOOS, and event lines.
5. Work with Merchandising to track critical paths, flag issues, and identify opportunities.
6. Conduct benchmarking trips, focusing on opportunities, pricing, and VM principles.
7. Perform regular store visits, gather feedback, and report insights.

Suppliers

1. Build and maintain positive relationships with key suppliers.
2. Ensure clear, regular, and relevant communication with suppliers.

Divisional Support

1. Prepare accurately for selections, sign-offs, and meetings.
2. Understand marketing protocols and packaging requirements.
3. Act as a deputy for the Buyer when needed.
4. Support and mentor TAB team members and facilitate fit sessions as required.

Minimum Requirements

• Experience in a Trainee or Assistant Buying role, preferably in fashion retail.
• Knowledge of key trends and the market.
• Commercial awareness.
• Ability to work independently under tight deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience in development and coaching.

Find out how Matalan is evolving from humble beginnings here.

We champion equality, foster an inclusive culture, and encourage colleagues to bring their true selves to work, promoting creativity and growth.

If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. High application volumes may lead to early closing, so apply promptly.

Our benefits include:

• 20% staff discount, increasing with service
• Thrive Recognition Scheme
• Wellbeing support from the Retail Trust
• Life Assurance
• Retail Rewards discounts
• Pension Scheme
• Career development opportunities

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