Buying Assistant Apprentice

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with a passion for fashion, interiors, retail, or trends. The ideal candidate will have a creative mindset, good attention to detail, and be eager to learn and develop new skills. Strong communication and teamwork abilities are essential, along with basic Microsoft Office skills (or the willingness to learn them). No prior buying experience is required, only enthusiasm, curiosity, and a positive attitude.

Requirements

• GCSEs in Maths (grade 4) and English (grade 4)
• Passion for fashion, interiors, retail, or trends
• Creative mindset with good attention to detail
• Eager to learn and develop new skills
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Basic Microsoft Office skills (or willingness to learn)
• Other relevant qualifications and industry experience are a plus, as the apprenticeship can be adjusted.

Responsibilities

• Supporting Buyers with day-to-day admin tasks
• Updating product and supplier information accurately
• Managing spreadsheets, reports, and product data
• Communicating with suppliers through Teams and email
• Helping track product launches and delivery timelines
• Assisting with sales reports and data analysis
• Working with different teams, including Marketing and Merchandising
• Researching trends and competitor products
• Creating simple mood boards and product inspiration ideas
• Helping keep product information organised and up to date
• Contributing to new product development and innovation using market/industry knowledge
• Contributing to the building of customer-focused ranges that meet the brand identity
• Ensuring product quality and legal compliance by working within industry standards, regulations, and legislation
• Accurately implementing the critical path, prioritizing actions accordingly
• Negotiating in a manner that balances financial return with ethical, honest, and fair operations
• Monitoring agreed performance targets with suppliers to manage ongoing supplier relationships
• Applying the organization's strategy to buying and/or merchandising to ensure strategic objectives are met
• Applying an ethical and sustainable approach to the buying and merchandising process in line with policies and procedures
• Ensuring the agreed route to market is delivered and maintained successfully
• Working with external and internal departments to build relationships and drive sales activity
• Using data to support decisions and influence the strategic and operational direction of the buying and/or merchandising approach
• Demonstrating accurate application of systems in analyzing data (e.g., customer trends, buying patterns, stock rotation and levels)
• Evaluating commercial performance to support proposed actions for both good and poor product performers
• Anticipating customer buying and product patterns to forecast future demand
• Articulating relevant ideas and opinions towards trends and competitor activity
• Applying customer profile/trend data to inform the development of a range, products, and services
• Formulating and communicating customer propositions
• Developing self and individuals to improve personal and team performance and capability
• Demonstrating commercial buying and merchandising within a financial framework
• Operating in a manner that produces the required financial rate of return for the business
• Coaching and mentoring new/less experienced colleagues
• Analyzing and presenting business data to support achievement of business strategies, brand, and KPIs
• Ensuring effective stock management to support the delivery of sales and profit forecasts