Assistant Buyer - Clothing & Pet Accessories

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