Buying Assistant

Buying Assistant

Solihull Full-Time 22000 - 28000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support commercial decisions by placing orders, checking prices, and coordinating stock.
  • Company: Join a thriving UK retailer with a dynamic Commercial Department.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, staff discounts, and development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team that influences product decisions and drives success.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade B or above; retail experience is a plus.
  • Other info: Full training provided; a supportive environment focused on growth.

The predicted salary is between 22000 - 28000 Β£ per year.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Buying Assistant to join a fast-paced and growing Commercial Department within a successful UK-based retailer. This role offers a chance to work closely with senior stakeholders and gain hands-on experience supporting commercial decision-making at scale.

Role Responsibilities

  • Placing purchase orders and forecasting stock levels
  • Coordinating transfers between distribution depots
  • Conducting competitor price checks
  • Setting up new product lines
  • Resolving supplier and logistics-related queries

Ideal Candidate Profile

  • Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
  • Strong numeracy and literacy with the ability to work to deadlines
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Confident communicator across all levels, including senior management and external suppliers
  • GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade B or above (or equivalent)
  • Previous experience in retail is beneficial

Full training provided and opportunities to grow within the Commercial team. A supportive working environment focused on hard work. This is more than just a support role β€” it’s a chance to be part of a team that drives high-impact decisions across product categories. If you’re driven, detail-oriented, and eager to make a difference, we want to hear from you.

Thank you for your interest in this role. We will assess your application against the essential criteria for the role. We aim to let you know within 48-hours if your application is to be progressed. If you do not hear from us within the time frame, you are not successful on this occasion, please continue to respond/apply to future roles we advertise. We will not retain your details in line with Data Protection guidance.

Buying Assistant employer: Plum Personnel

Join a dynamic and supportive team as a Buying Assistant in Shirley, Solihull, where you will have the opportunity to work closely with senior stakeholders and contribute to impactful commercial decisions. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture, offering comprehensive training and development opportunities, alongside a competitive benefits package including staff discounts. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals looking to grow within a thriving retail environment.
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Contact Detail:

Plum Personnel Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

We think this is how you could land Buying Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the retail industry and current market trends. Understanding what competitors are doing can give you an edge in discussions during interviews, showing that you're proactive and knowledgeable.

✨Tip Number 2

Brush up on your Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in data analysis and reporting can set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your communication skills. Since the role involves liaising with senior management and suppliers, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently will be crucial.

✨Tip Number 4

Network with professionals in the retail sector. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities within their companies.

We think you need these skills to ace Buying Assistant

Attention to Detail
Organisational Skills
Numeracy Skills
Literacy Skills
Microsoft Excel Proficiency
Microsoft Word Proficiency
Microsoft PowerPoint Proficiency
Communication Skills
Time Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Retail Knowledge
Data Analysis
Forecasting Skills
Competitor Analysis

Some tips for your application 🫑

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Buying Assistant role. Emphasise your attention to detail, organisational skills, and any previous retail experience.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention specific responsibilities from the job description, such as placing purchase orders or conducting competitor price checks, and explain how your background makes you a great fit.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, as this is crucial for the role. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in past experiences.

Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a polite follow-up email if you haven't heard back within the specified timeframe. This shows your continued interest in the role and can help keep your application top of mind.

How to prepare for a job interview at Plum Personnel

✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail

As a Buying Assistant, attention to detail is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where your meticulousness made a difference, whether in managing stock levels or placing orders accurately.

✨Demonstrate Your Numeracy Skills

Since the role involves forecasting stock levels and conducting price checks, be ready to discuss your experience with numbers. You might even want to brush up on basic calculations or Excel functions to impress during the interview.

✨Communicate Confidently

You'll be interacting with senior stakeholders and suppliers, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider preparing a few questions about the company or role to show your interest and communication skills.

✨Research the Company and Competitors

Understanding the retailer's position in the market can set you apart. Familiarise yourself with their product lines and recent developments, as well as their competitors, to demonstrate your proactive approach and industry knowledge.

Buying Assistant
Plum Personnel
Location: Solihull

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