Assistant Merchandiser

In a nutshell

To support the Global Sourcing team in delivering category strategy by ensuring accurate data management, timely order processing, and effective supplier communication. This role contributes to achieving sales, margin, and availability targets through operational excellence and cross-functional collaboration.

What I am accountable for 

• As part of the “Action Squad” to support Merchandisers to deliver priorities for the week.

• Support the administration of the department from reporting through to on-time bookings, follow through the entire process from order confirmation to order delivery

• Maintain accurate product and supplier data in internal systems.

• Monitor all order status and provide immediate solutions to ensure timely delivery of goods. Escalate supply chain risks or delays to merchandisers when needed.

• Liaise with suppliers to gather product specifications, samples, pricing and analyse these data to inform decision making.

• Co-ordinate with Global Technical and Supply Chain teams to ensure compliance and smooth flow of goods.

• Support the implementation of process improvements and system enhancements.

• Ensure alignment with ethical sourcing and sustainability standards.

What I need to know 

List the skills, qualifications and experience the job-holder should have, and whether they are essential or desirable.  Essential

• Diploma or degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field.

• Strong Excel and data management skills.

• Good communication and organisational abilities.

• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Desirable 

• Experience working with UK or international retailers.

• Familiar with system related to supply chain and product life cycle

• Understanding of product development and sourcing processes.

• Knowledge of sustainability and compliance standards in retail.

• Cost and negotiation skills

What I need to show

Our Valued Behaviours are our common DNA that every colleague should live by and provide the benchmark for how we deliver our goals/individual contribution, and how we relate to other colleagues in the organisation.

• Own it

  • Always do what you say you’ll do and suggest solutions for problems as you spot them

  • Ask questions and contribute honestly in discussions or conversations

  • Prioritise your work in line with team or project goals

• Make it better 

  • Willing to try new approaches in order to improve and simplify

  • Embrace variety and open to opportunities to transfer your skills to new challenges

  • Seek information to better understand your role and how teams around you operate 

  • Act on feedback you receive and give accurate and timely feedback to others

• Be human 

  • Show care and respect to everyone

  • Seek opportunities to connect with others and build trusted relationships

  • Walk in the shoes of your internal and external customers, considering their needs in all you do

Responsibilities

From fragrance to car care, clothing and pots and pans, our Sourcing Team delivers all the non-food items for our Sainsbury’s, Habitat and Argos customers in the UK. This multi-brand environment means you get to work across most areas. You can also be a pioneer, because the team believes in being brave, iterating and learning as they go. Working with colleagues globally, you’ll develop deep connections to other departments, which opens up a lot of different career opportunities for you.

Qualifications

We understand that all important work life balance and the benefits this brings for you, your role and our business. At Sainsbury’s Argos Asia, we work flexibly so you can prioritise. Exactly how you work will vary from role to role and between teams, depending on the nature of your work and specific goals. You will be able to manage your time better and concentrate on your wellbeing, giving you time to exercise, spend time with your family and friends when it matters or just to simply recharge your batteries.
 
 This is a truly inclusive culture so you’ll be welcomed whoever you are and wherever you go. Find out more about life working in Sainsbury’s Argos Asia and the importance we put into Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) by visiting our LinkedIn page - Sainsburys Argos Asia Limited