Assistant Buyer - Clothing & Pet Accessories

This growing online retailer who specialises in home furnishings, textiles, clothing and pet accessories is seeking an Assistant Buyer, reporting into a Senior Buyer. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and detail-oriented Assistant Buyer who is ready to step up from a Buying Admin Assistant position. You'll work across a diverse and growing product range in both clothing and pet accessories, playing a key role in driving product delivery, supporting product development, and maintaining strong supplier relationships.

With a focus on critical path management, sample coordination, and Far East supplier liaison, you will contribute to the smooth running of the buying cycle from concept through to delivery.

Key Responsibilities

* Oversee and maintain the critical path, ensuring all key deadlines are met

* Liaise directly with Far East suppliers, managing product samples and tracking approvals

* Coordinate and approve supplier submissions including fabrics, lab dips, prints, trims, and proto samples

* Track and manage the delivery of parcels and samples, ensuring timely communication and distribution

* Support product development by sharing trend insights, market research, and new product ideas

* Collaborate with internal teams such as Ecommerce, Studio, and Marketing to ensure product readiness and support for campaigns

* Conduct competitor analysis and compile reports to help inform product selection and strategy

* Attend relevant meetings, take accurate notes, and ensure all actions are followed up

* Communicate with suppliers to ensure all administrative and pre-shipment requirements are completed accurately and on time

Skills & Experience Required

* Minimum 2 years' experience in a buying or product-focused role (Buying Admin Assistant or Assistant Buyer level)

* PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A FULL TIME, OFFICE BASED ROLE (5 DAYS PER WEEK)

* Confident in managing supplier relationships, especially with Far East manufacturers

* Strong understanding of buying processes, including sample management and the critical path

* Excellent Excel skills and general IT proficiency

* Highly organised, with a keen eye for detail and a proactive attitude

* Strong communication and presentation skills

* Creative thinker with the ability to spot emerging trends and contribute ideas

* Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities

What's on offer:

* Flexible hours

* Free parking

* Extensive career progression

* Fun, friendly working environment

* The next step in your career in a business that is growing fast year on year