Junior Buyer - Newborn & Toddlers - Non Apparel - Mamas & Papas - GCC Markets

Role Overview

Junior Buyer - Newborn & Toddlers - Non Apparel at Mamas & Papas, a division of Al Tayer Group, based in the GCC Markets.

Company Overview

Mamas & Papas is a parenting solutions brand with industry awards and a wide product range including strollers, car seats, cribs, baby clothing, and nursery furniture. The company operates stores across the GCC and is committed to making the parenting journey easier and more joyful.

Role Purpose

Take ownership of a key category within the newborn and toddlers non-apparel product assortment, managing brand relationships and the end-to-end product process to deliver high-quality products at best value while supporting the buying team's strategic vision.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Category Management

• Develop detailed understanding of the department and market trends for the assigned category.
• Work closely with the Buyer and line manager to define product strategy and execute assortment in collaboration with principal brands.
• Incorporate store team and customer feedback to build and refine the category assortment.
• Establish explicit performance standards and promote accountability within the team.

Market Research & Sourcing

• Research sourcing opportunities, industry trends, and new brands or product areas to include within the portfolio.
• Research and select from home and abroad the best quality merchandise suppliers offer at the best price to maximize sales and profit margins.
• Approach and evaluate new brands and product categories.

Supplier & Vendor Management

• Maintain regular communication with suppliers as applicable.
• Assist with efficient ordering, delivery, and payment of merchandise to reduce queries and problems.
• Place re-orders in consultation with buyers and communicate relevant information to planning and supply chain teams.
• Maintain accurate database of vendor agreements and forward completed agreements to Merchandise Planning.
• Manage brand relationships and ensure proper stewardship of principal accounts.

Merchandising & Control

• Assist the Buyer to control selection of merchandise for sales within agreed markdown parameters and to reach agreed stock levels.
• Consolidate buying feedback reports and provide buyers with reports and recommendations per brand portfolio.

Reporting & Analysis

• Regularly present and update VP Buying and Head of Buying along with the Buyer on performance insights and analysis.
• React quickly to feedback and requests from senior management.

Stakeholder Management & Communication

• Proactively develop relationships with a wide variety of people and build immediate rapport in all situations.
• Understand interpersonal and group dynamics and react effectively.
• Engage input from others constantly and listen with empathy and concern.
• Deliver messages in a clear, compelling, and concise manner.
• Adjust communication content and style to meet the needs of diverse stakeholders.
• Distinguish between relevant and unimportant information to make sense of complex situations.
• Look beyond the obvious and analyze multiple and diverse sources of information to define problems accurately before moving to solutions.

Decision-Making & Development

• Make high-quality decisions decisively, even when based on incomplete information or in the face of uncertainty.
• Actively seek input from pertinent sources to make timely and well-informed decisions.
• Skillfully separate opinions from facts.
• Take consistent action to develop new skills.
• Find ways to apply strengths to new issues.
• Seek assignments that stretch beyond comfort zone.
• Be aware of skills needed to be successful in different situations and levels.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Fashion or related field is beneficial.
• Junior Buyer experience and expertise typically gained over at least 2 years in newborn or childrenswear and 2 years of merchandising.
• Good knowledge and experience in the related industry through work experience with international principals.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to create excellent trend presentations.
• Strong passion and natural sense for trends, taste, and aesthetics at a premium lifestyle level.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and brand management skills.
• Agile mindset, customer focus, collaborative approach, and timely decision-making.
• Ability to work calmly and efficiently under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent English communication and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills to manage multiple priorities and deadlines efficiently.
• Keen to travel and develop a network of professional and business relationships.

Additional Information

• Full details are available on the employer's original posting.