Assistant Buyer

Manchester | Office-based 

Competitive salary

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a proactive, organised and commercially minded Assistant Buyer to join a growing, fast-paced business.

Working closely with the Buyer and wider team, you’ll support product development, range building and supplier management, helping ensure products are developed to a high standard and delivered in line with agreed timelines.

This is a great opportunity for someone with a buying administration background who is ready to take on more responsibility, contribute ideas and develop their buying career within a collaborative, commercially focused team.

What You’ll Be Doing

Product Development & Range Building

• Support the Buyer with range building and product development, contributing ideas that reflect the target customer and market.
• Manage samples throughout the development process, ensuring approvals are completed accurately and on time.
• Oversee sample approvals, including lab dips, strike-offs and final sample sign-offs.
• Coordinate label artwork and support pre-shipment inspection approvals.
• Keep up to date with emerging trends, colours and materials.

Critical Path & Supplier Management

• Take ownership of critical path management, ensuring key milestones and launch dates are achieved.
• Liaise with overseas suppliers and factories to keep product development on track.
• Monitor deadlines and proactively resolve any issues that could affect delivery.
• Support the smooth running of the buying process, maintaining accurate records and clear communication.

Commercial & Market Awareness

• Carry out online and in-store competitor research to support buying decisions.
• Produce competitor analysis and SWOT reports.
• Develop a strong understanding of the target customer, competitor landscape and relevant marketplace platforms.
• Work closely with the Ecommerce team to support campaigns and photoshoots, including providing creative direction and inspiration for product styling.

What We’re Looking For

• At least two years’ experience in buying administration, ideally within a head-office environment.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage multiple deadlines.
• Good commercial awareness and an understanding of the product development and supply chain process.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong administrative skills.
• Confident communication and presentation skills.
• Good IT skills, including Excel.
• A creative mindset, with an interest in trends and product development.
• A proactive attitude, a willingness to learn and the confidence to take ownership of your work.

Why Join?

• A fast-paced, collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your buying career.
• Regular company social events.
• Company pension and employee discount.
• Free flu jabs.
• On-site parking.
• Flexible working times.



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