Junior Buyer

About SPOKE

SPOKE is a menswear label focused on providing styles that combine thoughtful design with effortless wearability. Based in Richmond, London, the brand emphasizes exceptional fit and quality, promising "Ridiculously Well Fit" or a money-back guarantee. Their commitment to substance and style has earned them a devoted customer base.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Junior Buyer to become an integral member of our Product team. This position is responsible for overseeing the daily management of seasonal timelines across product development to mass production, including tracking sample progress, managing lab dip approvals, and ensuring product data and range plans remain current and accurate. The role involves managing administrative tasks essential to keeping the department on schedule and running smoothly.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and record all types of samples (proto, SMS, PP, shipment) across categories, actively following up on pending items
• Oversee lab dip approvals through development and production phases and maintain an organized swatch library
• Coordinate cost price updates at each approval stage to guarantee data accuracy
• Prepare samples and development materials ahead of critical meetings and approval checkpoints
• Update and maintain the product critical path timeline, promptly highlighting any risks or delays
• Manage trackers, line plans, bills of materials, and shared resources to uphold precise documentation throughout production
• Collect and revise product information from initial prototype through to final sign-off
• Collaborate across teams including Design, Garment Tech, Merchandising, and Creative to ensure production adheres to schedule
• Communicate proactive progress updates, risk alerts, and changes to broader teams
• Liaise with suppliers to obtain updates on samples, production status, lab dip approvals, and pricing
• Assist in competitive shop reviews and trend research to guide seasonal product development
• Organize fabric and trim research, catalog swatches, manage supplier contacts, and maintain succinct notes
• Monitor emerging product developments and innovations for upcoming seasons
• Drive production progress by tracking critical path updates, organizing bi-weekly supplier meetings, and addressing potential issues with solutions
• Approve invoices in line with purchase orders, ensuring any discrepancies are resolved
• Support cost management by assisting the Head of Buying in margin reviews to meet financial targets
• Oversee weekly intake reports and flag delays promptly to the team
• Enhance operational workflows by building and maintaining tracking tools, dashboards, and documentation to boost transparency and efficiency in Product Development and Production
• Ensure clear, dependable information sharing between teams to facilitate better planning and decision-making
• Identify and implement improvements to digital platforms and processes to minimize duplication and streamline administrative tasks

Essential Requirements

• Exceptional organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Effective and confident communication, particularly in follow-ups and reminders
• Good commercial insight and a strong focus on customer needs
• Proficiency with Excel or Google Sheets and familiarity with collaborative digital tools
• Previous experience in product development or production through internships or assistant roles
• Genuine interest in menswear and the product creation journey

Preferred Qualities

• Strong administrative ability, recognizing its crucial role in operational success
• Proactive, responsible, and quick to identify and address challenges
• Ability to maintain energy, organization, and composure in high-pressure situations

Benefits

• Private Healthcare Plan
• Pension Schemes
• Options to work from home
• Opportunities for training and professional development