Assistant Buyer - Books

The role is perfect if you are looking for your first role in buying or in a retail head office, as it will give you first hand experience of the buying process from product selection to store delivery. You will have the chance to work with publishers, as well as build relationships with key stakeholders across the WHSmith Group. You will work on product development, social media plans, marketing and point of sale, as well as category strategy, and our campaign plan for the year ahead. You will be part of a close knit, driven and enthusiastic team. A knowledge of books is not required, but if you are a book lover then this is the perfect job for you.

What you will be doing

• Assist the Buyer in generating new ideas on how to grow sales, margin and supplier income


• Support with the management of new and existing projects


• Manage effective relationships with suppliers


• Keep abreast of market trends and competitor activity to help identify new opportunities as well as changes to our existing offering


• Ensure the smooth running of promotions and comply with promotional deadlines


• Take accountability and support the team on various projects
  
  You will have a basic understanding of business (i.e. buying and stock)


• You will be analytical and have a head for figures as this role is data driven


• A highly organised multitasker, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy


• Someone with an entrepreneurial mindset who is hungry to succeed and make an impact


• Good Microsoft Office skills, particularly in Microsoft Excel (if you can use pivot tables and VLOOKUPS, that would be advantageous)
  
  At WHSmith our people are at the heart of everything we do. They are the ones that go the extra mile for our customers. The ones that enable our growth., Celebrating 230 years, we're proud to have grown and evolved into a globally recognised brand present in over 30 countries around the world, and we're proud to be that air of familiarity people love and trust on their journey, both in life and through life. As a diverse group of over 12,000 colleagues, we are all on the same journey to a better business through our commitments to our planet, people and the communities we serve.


WHSmith have occupied our place as the Hub of the High Street and in our customers' hearts since 1792. Across our diverse estate of c.525 stores on UK high streets, with our wide-ranging store sizes and formats, we sell a large range of products including stationery, greeting cards, art and craft, newspapers, magazines, books and drinks. We are an ambitious team that thrives on pace, collaboration and innovation resulting in a real entrepreneurial culture.

WHSmith are proud to be an inclusive employer, we want our colleagues to feel welcome, and free to be themselves with us.


• Hybrid working model from home and in the office


• 4pm Friday finish


• Flexible Working


• 24 days holiday, plus your Birthday off, plus Bank Holidays with an opportunity to buy extra days holiday


• Family friendly leave


• Company pension


• Sharesave Scheme


• Annual Bonus based on company and Personal Performance


• Competitive salary


• Staff discount card for stores and online