Junior Buyer

WHITE STUFF; London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job description

White Stuff was established in 1985 through a simple idea. This idea grew, and now we have shops and concessions in the UK and internationally, selling women's and men's clothing as well as beautiful accessories and homeware. Our original prints (all designed in house), intricate details, and considered design touches reflect our personality and make us subtly distinctive.

Our people are at the heart of our brand, constantly moving and driving us forward. We're sociable, talented, and like-minded, and we're not hierarchical or political in how we do business. We encourage entrepreneurial ideas and accountability at all levels.

Who you are:

A Junior Buyer with a clear track record of delivering positive product and sales performance across e-comm and retail channels. You'll be a self-motivated individual, capable of driving product performance at pace. You will have a passion for product and an eye for detail.

Primary objective of the job:

As a Womenswear Junior Buyer, you will strategically develop and select a product range which maximises sales opportunities and anticipates and exceeds customer needs. The role includes sourcing product, negotiating cost prices which meet financial targets and market position, all whilst ensuring products meet the company quality and safety standards. You will have the ability to manage multiple product categories varying lead times.

What you'll be doing:

Range Development

• Work with the Design team to ensure the inspirational range balance is achieved across multiple departments and product categories.
• Develop a commercial range taking into consideration the supply chain process.
• Provide commercial balance between aesthetics and financial targets, working closely with the Merchandising function.
• Understand and evaluate the capabilities of the supplier base whilst anticipating future sourcing requirements.
• Understand the buying calendar of a multi-channel business.
• Research and react to relevant competitors.
• Work collaboratively with WW clothing departments to ensure the development of coordinating accessories ranges where relevant.

Commercial Acumen

• Monitor the sales performance weekly to evaluate and propose and implement any actions that need to be taken, maximising growth areas while managing risk.
• Clear understanding of the commercial drivers of the business, relating these to the product strategy from design concept to delivery.
• Make decisions in context of correct commercial balance between aesthetics and profit without compromising brand values.
• Negotiate prices to deliver target margin for the area of responsibility.
• Ability to agree and set delivery dates in line with the critical path and be aware of key milestones.
• Prepare initial outlines for range plan, keeping in mind the complex needs of a multi-channel business.
• Excellent range planning skills, working closely with Merchandise and Design functions.
• Work with Production and Garment Techs to deliver product that adheres to brand quality standards.
• Responsible for the entire fit sealing process ensuring it coincides with the critical path.

What you'll need:

• Relevant buying experience in Womenswear accessories or clothing areas.
• An eye for appropriate contemporary fashion with an ability to contribute and drive the product development, working closely with the Design team to identify trends and opportunities.
• High degree of buying knowledge and expertise.
• The ability to influence and communicate effectively at all levels.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Highly flexible with the ability to manage several activities simultaneously.
• Commitment, drive, and self-motivation.
• Shows initiative and is proactive with decision making.

What we will offer you:

As a Junior Buyer at White Stuff, you will be entitled to an array of great benefits, some of which include:

• Hybrid working.
• Annual bonus opportunity.
• Up to 25 days holiday per annum.
• 2 extra (paid!) days off per year to volunteer in the local community.
• 50% discount.
• Subsidised BUPA Dental Insurance.
• Healthcare cash plan and Life Assurance.
• Interest-free season ticket loan.
• Pension Contribution.

We are committed to creating an environment where we can all be proud to work and be ourselves. Part of this commitment is being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, and age.

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