Import Buyer in Skelmersdale

This is an exciting opportunity for an Import Buyer to join the retail industry, focusing on managing product imports and coordinating with suppliers. The role is based in Skelmersdale and offers a chance to contribute to a fast-paced and evolving department.

The hiring organisation is a small-sized company operating within the retail sector, known for its commitment to delivering quality products and fostering a productive environment. The company prides itself on its efficient processes and focus on growth within its team.

The role operates in a fast-paced environment, liaising closely with Sales, Design, Shipping, Warehousing, factories, and customers.

• Customer & Account Management: Manage key customer accounts, including B&M and The Works, overseeing a large portfolio of live product lines. Provide weekly updates to customers and suppliers on the progress of running orders. Respond to and resolve customer and supplier queries efficiently and professionally.
• Critical Path & Order Management: Create and manage detailed critical paths for all confirmed orders, from development stage through to final delivery. Ensure critical paths are adhered to by internal departments and external factories. Raise purchase orders with Far East factories and manage orders through SAP, including item code set-up.
• Sourcing & Factory Management: Maintain a strong understanding of the factory base, including audits, capabilities, limitations, and production possibilities. Liaise with Sales and Design to ensure enquiry sheets are completed accurately with full product specifications and customer requirements. Send enquiry documentation to factories and negotiate to achieve the best possible pricing. Build and maintain strong working relationships with factories and the Eurowrap China team.
• Product Development & Sampling: Send product artwork, packaging artwork, colour proofs, swatches, and samples to factories. Chase and manage all samples through the approval process. Review pre-production and production samples, ensuring timely customer approval before mass production and shipment.
• Production, Shipping & QC: Monitor factory production status and resolve any issues that arise during manufacture. Arrange container fills, shipment image forms, and liaise with the Shipping Department to confirm goods are approved for shipment. Carry out QC checks on bespoke stock upon arrival at the warehouse, addressing any quality issues identified during or after factory QC.
• Additional Responsibilities: Undertake any other duties as required by the Buying Team Leader or Managing Director in line with the needs of the business.

A successful Import Buyer should have:

• Previous experience in a merchandising or import-related role within the retail industry.
• Strong organisational skills with an ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in analysing data and generating actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with suppliers and internal teams.
• Knowledge of import regulations and documentation requirements.
• A proactive approach to solving problems and streamlining processes.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in documentation and reporting.

Competitive salary ranging from GBP28,000 to GBP34,000 per annum. Free parking available on-site for all employees. Opportunities for career progression within the retail industry. A permanent position offering job security and stability.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive team in Skelmersdale. Looking for your next challenge, we encourage you to apply today!