At a Glance
- Tasks: Support product strategy and ensure timely production with quality standards.
- Company: Join Mothercare, a global brand dedicated to families and children.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for career growth and collaboration in a vibrant office environment.
- Other info: This is a 12-month Fixed Term Contract based in Apsley.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that impacts families worldwide while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as an Assistant Buyer with strong analytical and communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 € per year.
Mothercare are seeking an experienced Assistant Buyer to join our Buying team in Apsley on a 12 month Fixed Term contract. Within this role you will support in identifying and delivering the product strategy for your department in line with the business and partners strategies.
Job Purpose
- Ensure that the products being manufactured are produced on time, with the right manufacturing partner and at the right price, liaising and intervening as necessary directly with the manufacturing partners to smooth production and resolve any issues.
- Support to negotiate the best prices at all times and that the products are always delivered without compromising quality.
- Ensure product development process is smooth and managed with total critical path adherence.
Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities
- Supporting the team to ensure product is developed in line with pricing, sourcing and company strategy. Follow through pricing from beginning to end to ensure KPIs are met.
- Full management of the production critical path ensuring that all key milestones are met and documented.
- To ensure that the relevant products within the range framework are produced to an acceptable level and within Mothercare brand handwriting.
- To build a strong relationship with the peer team, Merchandising, Technical, Supply Chain, Design Team, Commercial Business Team and Marketing.
- To communicate effectively with the Buyer to solicit support to address any difficult issues.
- Identifying opportunities and gaps in the market through regular competitor analysis.
- Build strong relationships with factory base to ensure product development and manufacturing process runs as smoothly as possible and with no delays to delivery.
- Accountable for updating line detail from place holder stage and ensuring it is accurate from with all information before handing over to ordering team.
- Support Buyer in the running of the global franchise brand event.
- Provide photographic samples to marketing in line with critical path.
Knowledge & Skills
- Experienced Assistant Buyer with category management skills.
- Knowledge of using Microsoft applications including Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Outlook.
- Buying disciplines and teamwork.
- Strong analytical and organisational skills.
- Communication and relationship building skills across all stakeholders.
- Time management.
Best Things
If you’re looking for a career change, why not take your search global? Or at least to a global business with their home in the UK. Working from our new Head Office in Apsley, you’ll find opportunities that reach families and franchise partners all around the world. Whether you’re interested in product design, finance, people management or another passion, each of our teams offer a unique experience but the same chance to collaborate with brilliant people and grow your career.
Assistant Buyer 12 month FTC in Hemel Hempstead employer: Mothercare UK Limited
At Mothercare, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Located in Apsley, our new Head Office provides a vibrant environment where employees can thrive, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development across various business areas. Join us to be part of a global brand that values its people and is dedicated to making a positive impact on families worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer 12 month FTC in Hemel Hempstead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the retail sector, especially in children's products. Understanding what’s currently popular can help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the buying and merchandising field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at Mothercare.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your analytical skills, particularly in using Excel for data analysis. Being able to showcase your ability to interpret data effectively will be a significant advantage in this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing supplier relationships. Think of specific examples where you successfully navigated challenges with suppliers, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain quality and timelines.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer 12 month FTC in Hemel Hempstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as an Assistant Buyer. Focus on your skills in category management, product development, and relationship building, as these are key for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage production critical paths and negotiate effectively.
Showcase Analytical Skills:Since strong analytical skills are essential for this position, include examples of how you've used data to inform buying decisions or improve processes in previous roles.
Highlight Team Collaboration:Emphasise your experience working with cross-functional teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with merchandising, technical, and marketing teams to achieve common goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mothercare UK Limited
✨Know Your Product Strategy
Familiarise yourself with Mothercare's product strategy and how it aligns with the overall business goals. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this strategy as an Assistant Buyer.
✨Demonstrate Strong Analytical Skills
Showcase your analytical abilities by discussing past experiences where you've successfully identified market opportunities or gaps. Use specific examples to illustrate your thought process and outcomes.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your relationship-building skills. Be ready to talk about how you've collaborated with various teams in previous roles, such as Merchandising or Supply Chain, to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Pricing Discussions
Since negotiating prices is a key part of the role, prepare to discuss your approach to pricing strategies. Think of examples where you've successfully negotiated costs without compromising on quality.
