At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage stock distribution and optimise inventory for our outdoor gear.
- Company: Join Cotswold Outdoor Group, a leading UK outdoor retailer.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £26,500, hybrid work, 33 days holiday, and generous staff discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting move to central Swindon and shape our community.
- Qualifications: Experience in stock management, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in Excel.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow in a supportive environment that values your wellbeing.
At Cotswold Outdoor Group, the outdoors isn’t just where we work, it’s who we are. As one of the UK’s leading outdoor retailers, we partner with world-class brands to offer a wide range of premium outdoor clothing, footwear, and gear designed for adventure, performance, and lifestyle.
We’re looking for an Allocator to join us; this role is about more than just day-to-day responsibilities, it’s about shaping how we inspire our customers, support our stores, and grow our community. We’re currently based in Kemble but will be moving to central Swindon in Spring 2026 - just a short walk from the train station and the new bus boulevard.
What you’ll be doing:
- Ensuring products are distributed to the right locations in line with demand, sales patterns and seasonal trends.
- Supporting accurate sales planning by adjusting stock levels as business needs change.
- Monitoring stock levels to minimise both shortages and excess, keeping stock availability consistent.
- Using sales and customer insights to make well-informed stock allocation decisions.
- Investigating and resolving stock issues, suggesting smarter ways of working to improve efficiency and results.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has experience in stock management and allocation, ideally using ERP or stock management systems.
- Understands demand forecasting and stock optimisation principles.
- Brings strong analytical and problem-solving skills and is confident working with data.
- Is proficient in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools.
- Communicates clearly and works well with others across teams.
- Pays close attention to detail and can manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines.
What you’ll get from us:
- Starting salary of £26,500 with a yearly bonus of up to £1,500.
- Hybrid working options to support your work-life balance.
- 33 days holiday allowing you to recharge and explore the outdoors.
- Staff discounts of 40-60% across our full range of outdoor brands.
- Savings on everyday essentials including groceries, travel, fitness, and entertainment through our perks hub.
Allocator employer: Tandem Talent
Contact Detail:
Tandem Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Allocator
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Cotswold Outdoor Group, their values, and the brands they partner with. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their adventure.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to stock management and allocation. Use real-life examples from your experience to demonstrate your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. We want to see how you think on your feet!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team right from the start of this exciting move to Swindon!
We think you need these skills to ace Allocator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When you're writing your application, let your love for the outdoors shine through! We want to see how your personal experiences and interests align with our mission at Cotswold Outdoor Group.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Allocator role. Highlight your stock management experience and any relevant skills that match what we're looking for. It shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
Be Data-Driven: Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, don’t shy away from showcasing your analytical skills. Mention specific tools or systems you've used in the past, especially if they relate to stock management or demand forecasting.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tandem Talent
✨Know Your Stock Management Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your stock management and allocation principles. Be ready to discuss your experience with ERP systems and how you've used them to optimise stock levels in previous roles.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your analytical prowess. Bring examples of how you've used data to make informed stock allocation decisions or resolve stock issues. This will show that you can think critically and act decisively.
✨Communicate Clearly
Cotswold Outdoor Group values teamwork, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you’ve collaborated with others in past roles and be ready to share specific examples of successful communication.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for the Outdoors
Since the company is all about outdoor adventures, express your enthusiasm for the outdoors during the interview. Share personal experiences or interests that align with their mission, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.