Junior Buyer (REF 1296)
- £35,000 – £40,000
- London / Hybrid
We are working with an established consumer brand supplying products to thousands of retailers worldwide. Known for innovative, high-quality ranges, they operate across multiple categories and pride themselves on delivering commercial success through creativity and strategic product development.
Working closely with the Head of Creative you will ensure that the product strategy is translated into commercially viable ranges. Working closely with internal teams, you will manage the full lifecycle of product development, from ideation through to factory delivery, ensuring deadlines are met and products meet both creative and commercial objectives.
Key Duties:
Ideation:
- Collaborate with Head of Creative to shape the product development strategy across all categories.
- Participate in ideation sessions, reviewing a high volume of ideas and distilling them into commercially viable and innovative products.
- Monitor trends and competitor activity to inform product development and propose new range concepts.
Sampling:
- Work alongside designers to oversee the sampling process of shortlisted new products.
- Ensure all sample costs and margins are accurate before proceeding to production.
Critical Path Management:
- Own and manage all product development critical paths, ensuring deadlines are met.
- Manage and escalate any production issues promptly, ensuring minimal disruption to timelines and stakeholders.
- Conduct regular catch-ups internally to review progress and communicate any challenges.
- Prioritise and organise tasks across multiple projects, maintaining agility in a fast-paced environment.
Production & Supplier Management:
- Liaise directly with factories, trading houses, and overseas suppliers via email and WeChat.
- Travel internationally (particularly to China) to visit factories and showrooms, ensuring production standards are met.
- Oversee costings, tariffs, and commercial feasibility at all stages of product development.
Testing & Workbooks:
- Working with a 3rd party to manage all product testing and documentation to ensure compliance with company and retailer standards.
- Maintain accurate product workbooks, costings, and records for internal and external reporting.
Stakeholder Management:
- Work closely with internal teams, including design, sales and operations, to ensure alignment on product ranges and timelines.
- Provide clear communication and updates to key stakeholders, resolving issues proactively.
You Will Have:
- 3 years’ experience in buying/product development, ideally with Far East experience.
- Exposure to sourcing and product development in China.
- A mix of creative, operational, and commercial skills.
- Strong understanding of costings, margins, and the recent impact of tariffs.
- Ability to prioritise, organise, and work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.
- Agile, adaptable, and resilient under pressure.
Diversity & Inclusion: ILMJ values diversity, equality and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and identities.
