Job PurposeThe Assistant Buyer supports the buying team in selecting, sourcing and purchasing product ranges to meet customer needs and commercial KPIs. They assist with supplier negotiations, stock management, sales analysis and administrative tasks to ensure a smooth buying process. Their primary focus is to support successful product selection, pricing and stock availability, and working closely on the coordination of tasks and process to achieve this.Key Responsibilities:Product PerformanceSupport the buyer in the discovery and purchasing of ranges that are aligned with the business goals and market trends.Assist in identifying new opportunities for product innovation and range expansionWork closely with the merchandising team in identifying gaps in the current product assortment, ensure target availability are achieved. Ensure top performing lines are a focus to maintain strong availability.Monitor competitor activity and industry trends to inform purchasing decisions.Work closely with the buyer to ensure product ranges align with overall company goals.Support in reviewing customer, store feedback and sales performance to enhance the category success.Supplier ManagementBuild and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to negotiate competitive pricing and favourable terms.Assist the buyer in evaluating supplier options according to price, service and quality and determine the best choicesAssist with supplier critical path and communication ensuring timely deliveries and assisting administration in resolving supply chain issues.Support supplier performance reviews, ensuring quality and compliance standards are met.Range ManagementAssist with the planning and sourcing of seasonal and promotional product. Ensuring all reporting files are kept up to date.Help manage product launches and stock levels in collaboration with internal stakeholdersMaintain accurate records of purchase orders, product details and supplier trading terms.Support the buyer with the development of Woodies Product Life Cycle.Performance AnalysisMonitor sales and stock levels to assess product and category performanceAssist in preparing reports and insights to support buying decisions and adjustments made to ranges.Identify underperforming products and recommend actions to optimize profitabilityTeam SupportEffective team management of L1 colleagues, ensuring clarity of their roles and responsibilities, as well as supporting the processes to deliver admin support to the Plants & Outdoor teamAssist in providing targeted mentorship to L1's on the team ensuring their proactive contributions enhance overall delivery and efficiency.Provide administrative and operational support to the wider buying team.Relationship ManagementCollaborate with cross – functional teams including merchandising, marketing and supply chain, to ensure seamless buying process.Build strong relationships with store colleagues and managers to foster close collaboration ensuring alignment on product plans and maximizing sales opportunitiesDevelop strong relationships with merchandising team to ensure efficient stock management, optimizing availability and driving sales to achieve budget targets.Build relationships – work well with others, engage with colleagues, management, the wider business teams, forming strong working relationshipsCompliance and Risk ManagementEnsure all purchasing activities comply with company policies, legal requirements and the Grafton Group ESG agendaSupport due diligence processes, including ethical sourcing and sustainability initiativesAssist in managing product control and safety standardsSkills:Strong understanding of gardening industry and seasonal demandsKnowledge of inventory levels, order management and supply chain coordinationAbility to manage multiple product areas and meet deadlinesAnalytical skills, interpret sales metrics, inventory performance and market trends.Performance Metrics:Achievement of sales and Revenue MetricsInventory management – stock turn over, aging inventory and out of stock rates.Operational EfficiencyCustomer and market insightsPersonal Attributes:Results-oriented with a strong commercial awarenessProactive attitude and takes initiative to identify opportunitiesAbility to work under pressure and meeting deadlinesHigh level of integrity and professionalism