Absolute Pets is a leading provider of high-quality pet products, committed to offering a diverse range of supplies to enhance the well-being of pets and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Junior Buyer.
Position Overview
As a Junior Buyer, you will play a crucial role in supporting the buying and planning functions of our pet specialty retail stores. This position requires a candidate with strong analytical skills, a keen eye for industry trends and a passion for providing pet owners with the best products available. The successful candidate will collaborate with the buying team, suppliers, and store operations to ensure an optimal product assortment that meets the needs of our diverse customer base.
Duties and responsibilities:
Assortment Planning
- Use data analytical tools and techniques to analyse sales data and product performance.
- Collaborate with the buying team to develop and execute category assortment plans aligned with market trends, customer preferences, and company objectives.
Supplier Management
- Research and identify potential suppliers.
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective buying of high-quality pet products.
- Negotiate pricing.
Market Research and Analysis:
- Conduct thorough market research though online research and store visits to identify emerging trends, competitive landscape, and customer preferences.
Planogram Creation
- Collaborate with the visual merchandising team to establish visual merchandising standards. Utilize Quant Retail, our planogramming system, to create visually appealing planograms that enhance the in-store customer experience.
New Product Introductions
- Evaluate new product opportunities, conduct product testing, and collaborate with suppliers to introduce innovative and high-quality pet products to our stores.
Store Staff Communication
- Provide comprehensive information about new products to store staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to educate customers and promote the latest additions to our product offerings
- Assist product and planning team with any additional ad hoc projects.
Experience and qualification:
- Bachelor's degree in business, merchandising, or a related field.
- 1-2 years of retail buying or planning experience, preferably in the pet industry.
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Excel or other data analysis tools.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Passion for pets and understanding of pet industry trends.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and results-driven environment.