Assistant Buyer (Interiors, Toys & Gifts)

Role Purpose

Read the overview of this opportunity to understand what skills, including and relevant soft skills and software package proficiencies, are required.
To support the development of innovative, design-led products that reflect the Mamas & Papas brand, managing projects from concept through to production within agreed cost and timeline targets.
Role & Responsibilities
Manage and maintain the product development critical path, ensuring key milestones are achieved on time and escalating risks where required.
Coordinate development meetings, providing updates, reports and actions to support project delivery.
Manage product samples throughout the development process, ensuring availability for review, photography, showroom and launch activity.
Create detailed product and packaging briefs for Marketing & Creative teams, including POS, instructions and ticketing requirements.
Support the identification of commercial product opportunities and the creation of product briefs aligned to target cost and consumer requirements.
Conduct competitor benchmarking and market analysis to identify trends and opportunities.
Work closely with Technical and Quality teams to ensure all products meet safety, compliance and quality standards.
Manage supplier relationships, supporting the sourcing and onboarding of new suppliers where required.
Maintain accurate product data across business systems.
Product Development & Costing
Coordinate end-to-end sample development, reviewing products against specifications and documenting feedback for suppliers.
Maintain sample archives and approval records throughout the development lifecycle.
Manage development costings, supplier quotations, MOQ information and lead times to support commercial decision-making.
Liaise with suppliers and overseas teams to ensure timely communication and resolution of development issues.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Highly organised and methodical with acute attention to detail.
A passion for product, keen understanding of brand identity and customer-first mindset.
Strong numerical foundation with an understanding of retail margins, product cost breakdown, and volume considerations.
Keen eye for detail and creative ability.
Degree or equivalent in Design/Creative/Retail
Min 1–2 years of experience within a product development or buying
We're a business that cares. Here's just some of our benefits on offer;
• 33 days holiday, increasing up to 40 with service.
• Buy & Sell holiday schemes
• Company Bonus Schemes
• Employer pension contribution from day 1 enrolment.
• Significant staff discounts for family & friends from our shops & online
• Ongoing offers & discounts across a variety of external organisations, from holidays, travel, restaurants, gifts & services to many more worthy discounts through our Benefits Hub
• Subsidised health & critical illness cover and insurances
• Supportive family related leave policies (including company enhanced pay for maternity, IVF & Fertility, surrogacy, paternity, adoption, shared parental leave)
• Supportive Foster Care & Carers Leave offering
• Support for Loss and Bereavement
• A Menopause Friendly Employer
• Employee Recognition and Appreciation Schemes
• At Mamas & Papas, we're a business for the future. Every day, we help to welcome a new generation of children into the world, and we want them to grow up in a world that's sustainable – one that's full of opportunity and hope. xrexnqw
...Oh, and a great bunch of people to work with too.
We also operate at Head Office:
• Hybrid flexi office working with 2 days working from home
• Flexi-time schemes based around core working hours whether in the office, or working from home
• Plus, free car parking, Prayer & Contemplation room, subsidised canteen, free tea & coffee, Games & TV rooms & much more.
(NB*: All benefits subject to individual schemes criteria & terms)
Mamas & Papas (Head Office)
Colne Bridge Road,
Huddersfield,
West Yorkshire
HD5 0RH