At a Glance
- Tasks: Support buying and merchandising in a fast-paced retail environment at a world-renowned cultural institution.
- Company: Join the iconic Royal Opera House, a leader in arts and culture.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a vibrant setting, and enjoy a creative atmosphere.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for growth in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that shapes the future of retail in the arts.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail buying or administration, with a flair for design and detail.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms, from live streaming to worldwide cinema screenings. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies: The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera. The Royal Opera House describes the place we work, not who we are. The whole is always more than the sum of its parts – we may be a House, but three quarters of our audiences experience what we do outside this building. While our Covent Garden theatre is the nerve centre, the impact and influence of the organisation can be felt in every corner of the country, and around the world.
Thanks to the role played by our Audiences and Commercial division we continue to push boundaries and explore new ways to tell our stories, helping encourage people to attend live performances, watch screenings at the cinema or performances streamed online, or coming in to enjoy the shop, bars, and restaurants in our iconic Covent Garden building.
As part of our vision to expand our commercial opportunities, including product offerings within the store, the retail team have a new and exciting opportunity for a Buying and Merchandising Assistant to join us. Reporting directly into the Retail and Buying Manager (RBM), the Buying and Merchandising Assistant will be responsible for supporting across an array of administrative tasks.
Our Ideal Candidate Will Have:
- Strong experience of working as a buying and merchandising assistant or administration role within a fast-paced retail environment.
- Knowledge of EPOS and inventory management systems – Shopify and Stocky or similar systems.
- Creative flair, strong eye for design and attention to detail.
- Organised, methodical and able to prioritise workload.
- Accurate data input and handling.
- Team player who collaborates and communicates effectively at all levels.
Closing date for applications: 11:59pm, 9th April 2026. To ensure a fair process, late applications will not be considered under any circumstances. Applicants must have work authorisation for the UK. No agencies.
Retail Buying and Merchandising Assistant employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
The Royal Opera House is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture steeped in the rich heritage of London’s Covent Garden. Employees benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters creativity and innovation, alongside opportunities for professional growth within the arts sector. With a commitment to expanding commercial ventures, the role of Buying and Merchandising Assistant provides a unique chance to contribute to the cultural landscape while enjoying the perks of working in a world-renowned institution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Buying and Merchandising Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to The Royal Ballet and Opera. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to meet with hiring managers, bring along a portfolio or examples of your work. Let them see your design flair and attention to detail in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for the fast-paced environment! Brush up on your knowledge of EPOS and inventory management systems like Shopify. Being able to talk confidently about these tools will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at The Royal Opera House.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Buying and Merchandising Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Retail:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for retail shine through! We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about the Buying and Merchandising Assistant role with us.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in fast-paced retail environments. We love seeing how your skills align with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Detail-Oriented:Since attention to detail is key for this role, ensure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate a polished application that reflects your organisational skills right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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 to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research The Royal Ballet and Opera. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with buying and merchandising in detail. Prepare specific examples of how you've used EPOS and inventory management systems like Shopify or Stocky. Highlight your creative flair and attention to detail with tangible results from your past roles.
✨Get Organised
Since the role requires strong organisational skills, think of ways to demonstrate this during the interview. You could mention how you prioritise tasks or manage your workload effectively in a fast-paced environment. Bring a notebook to jot down key points during the conversation!
✨Be a Team Player
The Royal Ballet and Opera values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you work well with others. Share examples of successful teamwork and how you communicate effectively at all levels. This will show that you’re not just a great individual contributor, but also a valuable team member.
