About the RoleAs an Assistant Buyer, youll work closely with the Buyer to ensure the department achieves sales, stock and margin targets through the development of the product range, building and maintaining strong working relationships with the supplier base.StrategyWork alongside the Buyer to provide defined reports that will support creation of strategyFor a defined product range, undertake market and trend research and analysis to create a strategy proposal.Have an up-to-date knowledge and understanding of the Divisional and overall Matalan strategyRange Development for defined product rangeWork alongside Buyer & Merchandising team to develop shape of the range ensuring alignment with the overall departmental strategy & KPIsWork alongside Buyer and Designer to interpret the trends and develop commercial ranges within the agreed strategy frameworkPro-actively bring insight and ideas to support development of wider rangePresent specific ranges in a relevant and impactful way ensuring correct samples are used and all product delivers the agreed margins with support from the Buyer.Ensure pricing is well benchmarked and in line with company strategyHave full knowledge and understanding of the keyline processTradingUsing Monday Trading Reports be able to read and analyse Trade.Work with the TAB to ensure data and samples are pulled for Trade meetings on time.Highlight Best & Worst to the buyer alongside newness, problem lines and identifying opportunities alongside creation of a supporting commentary done as part of weekly Trade and at sign off.For department, have knowledge of keylines, NOOS lines and event linesWork alongside the Merchandising team to ensure the critical path is followed and tracked, flagging any issues or opportunities to the BuyerConduct regular shopping and benchmarking trips highlighting opportunities, price architecture and VM principlesFollowing the correct procedure, ensure regular store visits are conducted. Gather relevant feedback to report back to the team.SuppliersPro-actively build and maintain positive and professional working relationships with key suppliersEnsure communication with suppliers is relevant, regular and clearDivisional SupportEnsure preparation for selections, sign offs and supplier meetings is accurate, organised and completed to a high standardClear understanding of Marketing protocol and needsClear understanding of packaging requirements for defined rangeDeputise for the buyer as and when required.Build and maintain good relationships with the TAB population, acting as a role model and providing support / mentorship as neededUnderstand and as required, be able to facilitate the running of fit sessionsPlease note internally this role is known as Assistant Buyer.About YouExperienced within a Trainee or Assistant Buying role, preferably within fashion retailKnowledge of key trends and marketCommercially awareAbility to work independently to tight deadlinesExcellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate at all levelsExperience of development and coaching is essential.About MatalanFrom humble beginnings to disruptive innovations in the retail industry, find out about how Matalan is ever-evolvinghere.We know as a team, we are stronger together we champion equality for all and make lasting connections that go beyond work. We thrive off our inclusive culture, encouraging our colleagues to bring their true selves to work and contributing to collective creativity, open-mindedness and growth.We want give every candidate the opportunity to perform at their best throughout the application and interview process and then ultimately in their role. If you require any adjustments during our recruitment process, please dont hesitate to let us know.In the event that a high volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.JBRP1_UKTJ