At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Accessories Buyer in managing product development and seasonal strategies.
- Company: Join a dynamic home accessories brand with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a collaborative culture and room for career advancement.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team driving exciting product launches and making an impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying or retail, strong analytical skills, and a passion for home interiors.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are looking for an experienced and commercially astute Assistant Buyer to support our growing Home Accessories category. This role plays a key part in executing seasonal strategies, managing the critical path, and driving product and process improvements. You’ll be expected to bring initiative, strong judgement, and a proactive mindset — someone who can anticipate needs, take ownership, and confidently support the Buyer in delivering a compelling and profitable product offer.
Key duties and responsibilities will include:
- Support the Accessories Buyer in the end-to-end Buying process, from range planning and product development through to delivery and trade.
- Take ownership of the critical path, proactively managing timelines and flagging risks across suppliers and internal teams to ensure smooth execution of seasonal launches.
- Build strong relationships with suppliers – chasing progress, resolving issues and escalating concerns or proposed solutions to the Buyer, where appropriate.
- Monitor sales, stock, margin and rate-of-sale data, to identify risks and opportunities, and support in-season decision-making.
- Conduct regular market and competitor analysis to inform pricing, design direction, and product opportunities.
Essential qualities and behaviours we're looking for:
- Commercially aware with a genuine interest in product performance and customer needs.
- Highly organised, with strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to managing multiple deadlines.
- Proactive and self-motivated, able to anticipate next steps and take initiative without waiting for instruction.
- Comfortable working at pace and staying calm under pressure.
- Clear and confident communicator, able to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
- Solutions-focused mindset, with good judgement and the ability to escalate issues constructively.
- Team player who supports others and contributes to a collaborative working culture.
Qualifications, skills and experience - essential:
- Proven experience in an Assistant Buyer or similar role within a homeware, interiors or lifestyle retail environment.
- Commercially aware with a keen interest in interiors and a strong understanding of customer preferences.
- Confident in analysing data to make informed, commercially-driven decisions.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong cross-functional relationships.
- Proactive, solutions-focused mindset - able to anticipate needs and work with minimal direction.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment.
- Confident user of Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Collaborative team player who can delegate to junior team members while taking ownership of key deliverables.
Whilst not essential, it would be great if you had:
- Experience of using Netsuite CRM or similar ERP systems.
- Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and/or InDesign.
Assistant Buyer – Home Accessories in Norfolk employer: The Cotswold Company | B Corp
At Cotswold Company, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility between our Norwich and London locations, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that you will have ample opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career in the exciting world of home accessories. Join us to be part of a passionate team that values initiative and creativity, making a meaningful impact in the retail landscape.
Contact Detail:
The Cotswold Company | B Corp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer – Home Accessories in Norfolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Show us you’re genuinely interested in the role by discussing how your skills align with their needs. We love candidates who come prepared!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer – Home Accessories in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Buyer role. Highlight your experience in homeware or lifestyle retail, and showcase any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about home accessories and how your proactive mindset aligns with our needs. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch!
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since analysing data is key for this role, make sure to mention any experience you have with data analysis tools or techniques. We’re looking for someone who can confidently make informed decisions based on sales and stock data.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our careers page! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cotswold Company | B Corp
✨Know Your Products
Before the interview, dive deep into the home accessories market. Familiarise yourself with current trends, popular products, and competitors. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you discuss how you can contribute to the company's product offerings.
✨Master the Numbers
Brush up on your data analysis skills, especially in relation to sales, stock, and margin metrics. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data in past roles to make informed decisions. This will demonstrate your commercial awareness and ability to drive product performance.
✨Showcase Your Organisation Skills
Since the role requires managing multiple deadlines, come prepared with examples of how you've successfully juggled various tasks in previous positions. Highlight your methodical approach and attention to detail, as these are key qualities they’re looking for.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Practice clear and confident communication, and be ready to discuss how you’ve built strong relationships with suppliers or team members in the past. This will showcase your collaborative spirit and solutions-focused mindset.
