Senior Assistant Buyer
Accessories.Worked closely with the Heads of Buying and Merchandising to develop a commercial and creative product range, including presenting to senior levels of staff and company directors. Using proven communication and negotiation skills, liaised with suppliers in the UK, Europe and the Far East, to meet target margins and maximise profits. Initiated the review of suppliers to seek opportunities for sourcing and analysed the market in order to react quickly and decisively to current trading reactions. Worked closely with Buyer and Merchandiser to manage the OTB. Not having a design team for the Accessories department required educating suppliers' designers as to what made the customer 'JN', keeping on top of the latest 'must have' trends, whilst adding those little touches that differentiated us from other brands. The role called for ensuring and managing the smooth running of the critical path and development process with sole responsibility for developing own areas. Able to adapt to a broad range of product areas from Loungewear and Swimwear to Belts and Wintershop, demonstrating an extensive knowledge of different fabrics, materials and technical processes. Developed, supported and trained newer members of the team to ensure they were reaching their potential. £22 million Annual turnover for Accessories department, £2 million annual turnover for belts and scarves for which I was responsible for developing. 200 options across Swimwear, Nightwear, Scarves, Belts, Wintershop, Sun shop, School bags, Gifts and Hosiery. Successes -Increased the sales of under performing product areas and maximised the potential of key winners ensuring their continued success. Loungewear finished the yr + 8% in units and cash, Wintershop was +15%/yr in units and cash and Lightweight scarves was + 77%/ yr in units and cash.
