Senior Assistant Buyer - Womenswear

Stylish, grounded, uplifting – these values live through everything we do at Boden. Without the collaboration, honesty and friendship between our teams, we wouldn’t be where we are today. We curate a world of beauty that’s ethical, inclusive – and importantly – good fun. We inspire you to live your best life. We are Boden.

Overview

The Senior Assistant Buyer reports to the Buyer and they are responsible for assisting to manage the department. This includes management of the Admin Assistant, negotiation, supplier communication, overseeing the department critical path and systems admin to ensure deadlines are met.

Location: 4-5 days per week based at our North Acton Office.

What You Will Do

• Support the development of our amazing product working closely with internal teams and suppliers.
• Work closely with the Designers, Techs and Merchandisers to ensure the designs align with the Product Framework and are a balanced wearable offer.
• Understand the Boden brand and the customer in all trading regions and regularly monitor and analyse competitors’ prices and activities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the Buying cycle.
• Support in the creation of a robust seasonal Framework.
• Support the Buyer to build a balanced range which is commercial, customer focused and on brand considering all trading markets.
• Understand cost and fabric prices required, set target prices and negotiate with suppliers to meet the required target margin with support of the Buyers.
• Oversee the management of the critical path process to achieve key dates, taking appropriate actions to avoid delays or air shipment.
• Ensure deliveries are on time and delays are communicated in a timely manner and solutions offered.
• Set up order confirmation sheets and communicate to suppliers.
• Ensure development packs and samples meet the deadlines set out in the company.
• Attend fit sessions to deputise for the Junior Buyer/Buyer when required, ensuring all styles deliver the best fit and flatter, considering; core blocks, customer reviews, fabrics.
• Manage the Admin Assistant ensuring they meet deadlines, and work to the quality standards required.
• Hold weekly 121’s with your Admin Assistant, coach and develop within their role.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the supply base and internal teams to ensure smooth running of the department.
• Keep systems up to date and accurate at all times with the help of your Admin Assistant.
• Set up production BOM’s and ensure all information is accurate before placing orders with suppliers.
  
  

What We Are Looking For

• Passionate about a career in Buying.
• Be creative and have a keen eye for detail.
• Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Experience working collaboratively within a team.
• Some retail or administrative experiences.
• Be organised, adaptable and enjoy a challenge.
• Clear communication skills.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Great time management.
• Ability to multitask.
• Ability to work independently.
  
  

What We Offer

• Competitive salary & targeted annual bonus scheme.
• Generous Boden clothing allowance!
• 30% discount on all current clothing ranges.
• 25 days Holiday annually, plus Bank Holidays.
• Online Portal with an array of discounts on retail & entertainment.
• Virtual GP Service for you and your household!
• Free onsite parking and subsidised café.
  
  

We want Boden to be the place everyone wants to work. Friendly, open and tolerant. A best-of-British company with diverse teams, equal opportunities, and fair working and recruitment practices. We believe in hiring the best person for the job whoever they are, helping them thrive in it and celebrating their individuality.

We would like to encourage people from a diverse range of backgrounds to apply for our roles. If you need any reasonable adjustments or additional support during your application process, please do not hesitate to let us know.