At a Glance
- Tasks: Support ethical trade initiatives and ensure compliance in the global supply chain.
- Company: Join Next, a leading FTSE-100 retail company with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, bonuses, and access to health and wellbeing services.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ethical trading while travelling nationally and internationally.
- Qualifications: Passion for ethical trading and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As an Assistant Ethical Trade Manager you will be responsible for supporting and assisting with the continuous development of Next plc global Corporate Responsibility strategy and to support the compliance of the Next Group supply chain. This will involve identifying where issues exist, making decisions and reporting on the improvements required and managing such action plans to achieve the required standards. The role will involve national and potentially international travel. You will be working closely with relevant product teams to build awareness of our Code of Practice approach and will liaise regularly with our own overseas team. The role will spend time at both Next Head Office in Enderby and Joules Head Office in Market Harborough.
What You Will Take On
- Auditing: You will ensure that the new supplier on‑boarding and induction process is followed correctly as well as processing New Site Requests and factory self‑assessments for inclusion in audit planning. You will schedule and carry out audits as per Code of Practice in the ‘UK & Rest of World’ region in line with COP Principle Standards and Auditing Standards ensuring that non‑conformities are clearly identified & communicated to the relevant supplier in a timely manner. Audit reports must be completed to a high standard in line with our team approach.
- COP Process: As part of the role you will plan and hold meetings with internal teams and external suppliers covering a range of issues such as factory lists, compliance performance, remediation plans, global supply chain issues as well as supporting suppliers/factories/product teams/global COP team with management of corrective action plans. You will also be responsible for building and maintaining supplier and product team relationships.
What You Will Bring
- You will demonstrate a passion and interest for ethical trading, as well as an understanding of broader global supply chain issues.
- Having a good understanding and appreciation for compliance processes and practices is also an advantage.
- An ability and willingness to travel throughout the UK and overseas.
- An effective communicator you will possess exceptional organisational skills and have an ability to adapt and prioritise a challenging workload.
- A natural problem solver you will have experience of visiting factories and engaging with a range of stakeholders including internal teams, external suppliers and other organisations.
- A strong understanding of compliance processes and ethical trading issues.
- Excellent organisational skills and the flexibility to adapt to changing priorities.
- Some experience of data analytics and using data to prepare reports is desirable but not essential.
- A valid driving licence and the ability to travel across the UK and overseas.
About Us
You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE-100 retail company employing over 44,000 people across the Next group. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 450 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy online from over 80 countries around the world. So we’ve gone global!
About The Team
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
- Company performance based bonus
- Sharesave scheme
- On‑site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Early VIP access to sale stock
- Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
- Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
- Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
- Free on‑site parking
- Financial Wellbeing - Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
- Apprenticeship - Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
- Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
- Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
- Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change. We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long‑term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (please include ‘Workplace Adjustments’ in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
Assistant Ethical Trade Manager in Leicester employer: Next
Next plc is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions ethical trading and corporate responsibility. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will benefit from extensive training opportunities, competitive discounts, and a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation. Located in Enderby and Market Harborough, our offices provide a vibrant atmosphere where you can thrive while contributing to meaningful global supply chain improvements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Ethical Trade Manager in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their approach to ethical trading and compliance. We want you to show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for their culture!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve tackled challenges. We know that being a natural problem solver is key for this role, so let that shine through in your discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Ethical Trade Manager in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your passion for ethical trading and compliance processes. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of Assistant Ethical Trade Manager, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant skills!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love a natural problem solver, so share any experiences where you’ve engaged with stakeholders or improved processes!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Next
✨Know Your Ethical Trade Stuff
Make sure you brush up on ethical trading principles and compliance processes before the interview. Familiarise yourself with Next's Code of Practice and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their Corporate Responsibility strategy.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since this role involves managing audits and action plans, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully organised complex tasks in the past. Highlight your ability to prioritise and adapt to changing workloads.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you would engage with suppliers and internal teams, and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills during the interview.
✨Be Ready to Travel
As the role involves national and international travel, express your willingness and enthusiasm for it. Share any relevant experiences you have had visiting factories or working with global teams to show you're up for the challenge.