AddressCompany Description:
J. Barbour & Sons Ltd founded in 1894 is a British lifestyle brand, home to the iconic wax jacket we design, manufacture and market stylish functional clothing and footwear for men, women and children inspired by the unique values of the British countryside. We are the proud holder of Royal warrants, and remain true to our core values as a fifth-generation family business. Barbour is sold in over 40 countries worldwide, including Europe, the US and Japan but we have our headquarters and roots firmly located in the North East of England.
Position Overview:
We have an exciting opportunity for a Raw Materials Buying Assistant to join our fast-paced Supply Chain team here at our Head Office in South Shields on a temporary Maternity Cover. The focus of this role is to control, order, and expedite the flow of Raw Materials into all designated sites in order to satisfy the agreed and published production plan and internal customer requirements. The ideal candidate will have experience of working within a similar fashion and apparel environment, with demonstrable knowledge of the buying process.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Raising internal and external customer orders allocating costs to the appropriate department.
- By negotiation and agreement, secure the most advantageous purchase prices and delivery times for all designated Raw Materials. Ensure M3 system reflects correct prices at all times.
- Respond to all changes and updates to production plan with relevant raw material purchase orders within 48 hours of the communicated change.
- Resolve any Raw Material shortages detailed on the weekly shortfall reports within 48 hours and report any exceptions to the Raw Material procurement Manager.
- Ensure that a Barbour purchase order is raised on the computer system for all Raw Materials purchased and a relevant written communication is obtained from the supplier. Expedite orders and advise of any late deliveries that may impact on production through use of outstanding order information
- Ensure that a reconciliation of requirement is conducted before placing any purchase order.
- Analyse RM new forecast information to assess any advance buying requirements, discussing risk with the Raw Material procurement Manager.
- Analyse stock takes from manufacturers, update M3, identify and report any risk to the Raw Material Procurement Manager
- Accurate upkeep of M3 system through a disciplined approach to stock transfers, booking in, order balances, etc.
- Liaise with the Design team over new trim requirements and organise sampling from artwork/specifications provided. Highlight similar items already in existence during this process.
- Maintain and develop productive working relationships with the raw material supply base.
- Build strong working relationships with all areas of the business in particular design and development, garment technology and Raw Materials technology.
- Upkeep of all RM sample reference files and submissions
- Undertake any other reasonable activity, as may be required by senior management
Skills and Experience:
- Experience in a buying role dealing with a global supply base.
- Excellent negotiation skills.
- Knowledge of import / export procedures.
- Strong analytical approach with high attention to detail.
- Good IT skills including use of Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word).
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to build strong relationships both internally and externally.
- Ability to work under pressure, within closely managed deadlines.
- Sound problem solving and decision-making skills.
Additional information:
- This is a temporary role covering a maternity leave.
Benefits:
- Discretionary Company bonus scheme
- Staff Discount
- Staff Shop
- Healthcare Cash Plan
- 25 days holiday as standard increasing with length of service plus bank holidays (prorata’d to contract length and point in holiday year)
- Access to training and development activities to support your career development
- Free onsite parking
- Subsidised canteen
- Operate hybrid & flexible working
- 4pm finish on a Friday
- Wellbeing support
Note: In the event that a sufficient volume of suitable applications are received, the post may close prior to the specified closing date. Please apply as soon as possible if interested.
