Assistant Buyer/ Product Developer (Furniture)

Description:

Role Purpose
The Assistant Buyer will support the Buyer in the development, trading and management of the Nursery Furniture category across retail stores, ecommerce and wholesale channels. Working closely with internal teams and supplier partners, the role will help deliver category growth through new product development, commercial analysis, supplier management and successful product launches.

This role offers an opportunity to develop strong commercial, product and project management skills while playing a key part in shaping the future Nursery Furniture proposition at Mamas & Papas.

Role & Responsibilities:
• Support the development of nursery furniture collections from initial concept through to customer launch.
• Assist with product briefs, development samples and product approvals.
• Coordinate sample reviews ensuring all feedback is communicated clearly to suppliers.
• Maintain accurate product specifications, dimensions, material details and finish information.
• Work closely with Design and Technologist teams to ensure products meet brand, safety and customer requirements.
• Support the management of colourways, finishes and product variations across furniture ranges.
• Assist with competitor reviews, market research and trend analysis.

Commercial & Trading Performance
• Analyse weekly sales, margin, intake and stock performance to identify risks and opportunities.
• Produce regular trading reports and performance summaries.
• Monitor competitor activity, pricing, promotions and market developments.
• Support recommendations for range reviews, markdown activity and promotional opportunities.
• Review customer feedback and product reviews to identify product improvement opportunities.

Supplier Management
• Build strong working relationships with supplier partners and factories.
• Support cost negotiations and commercial discussions.
• Track supplier performance against agreed timelines and quality standards.
• Coordinate supplier communications relating to product development, samples and launches.
• Assist in identifying opportunities for cost savings and product enhancements.
• Maintain critical paths to ensure products launch on time.
• Coordinate product launches across multiple functions.

Customer & Channel Execution
• Support the successful launch of furniture collections across all customer touchpoints.
• Work with Ecommerce teams to ensure product descriptions, imagery and specifications are accurate.
• Support creation of launch materials for stores, online and wholesale customers.
• Collaborate with Retail teams to optimise displays and customer experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience
• Previous experience within a Buying, Assistant Buying or commercial product role.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical skills and commercial awareness.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint capability.
• Ideally, experience within furniture, nursery, homeware or consumer products.
• Understanding of product development and sourcing processes desirable