Merchandise | Buyer Assistant

Introduction

Our client is seeking a Merchandise Assistant to join their team –

A Merchandise Assistant who can provide essential administrative, operational and coordination support within the Merchandising function. The role supports Buyers and Brand teams in the execution of product development, buying, catalogues, marketing campaigns and supplier coordination.

Duties & Responsibilities

General administration and buyer support

• Load and maintain accurate product codes, SKUs, pricing and product information on relevant systems and Excel trackers.

• Prepare, update and manage buy plans and flows, prep sheets, NPD trackers and supporting Excel documents.

• Provide day to day administrative support to Buyers, ensuring tasks are completed accurately and within required timelines.

• Trace shipments and follow up on delivery timelines with internal teams and suppliers.

Manage samples and sample tracking, including

• Receiving, tagging and logging new samples.

• Maintaining an organised and tidy sample storeroom.

• Ensuring samples are available when required for catalogues, marketing and internal reviews.

• Maintaining and updating NPD sample testing feedback documentation.

• Assist Buyers with Distributor and Manager launches, including sample preparation and coordination.

• Support model shows and internal previews (if required), ensuring samples are prepared, labelled and presented correctly.

• Conduct pricing comparisons across suppliers and competitors.

• Assist with competitor analysis, trend analysis and market research.

• Expiry date monitoring and reporting (if required).

Catalogue support

• Product descriptions, pricing, colours, sizes and product codes are accurate.

• Errors or discrepancies are identified and flagged timeously.

• Cross check catalogue information against approved prep sheets and product data.

• Support the Merchandising team in meeting catalogue deadlines and approval timelines.

Marketing and campaign support

• Upload and manage photo briefs and social media content on Coda, ensuring information is complete and accurate.

• Assist with workflow management on ClickUp, tracking tasks and ensuring timelines are met.

• Coordinate and manage sample requirements for photo shoots.

Assist Marketing during photo shoots, including

• Ensuring correct samples are available, prepared and returned.

• Supporting outfit selection and styling where required.

• Assisting with model selection in collaboration with the team.

• Ensuring models are well presented and groomed in line with brand standards.

• Act as a support link between Merchandising and Marketing to ensure smooth execution of campaigns.

• Manage the artwork checking and sign off process, following up until the Manager's sign off.

• Ensure that all new products are ordered from the DC, for the Buyer to match to the signed off formula and design.

Supplier correspondence and coordination

Liaise with suppliers regarding

• Sample requests and follow ups.

• Recording all samples received and feedback on the Excel tracking document.

• Barcodes and shipping marks.

• Product related queries and documentation.

• Ensure barcodes, shipping marks and required information are sent to suppliers timeously.

• Follow up with suppliers on outstanding samples and approvals.

• Maintain clear, professional and accurate email communication with suppliers.

• Follow up on operations and deliveries, specifically with Ops and system (Odoo) orders.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Experience and qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in an administrative role, preferably in a retail environment.

• Tertiary level qualification in retail, marketing or business (required).