Buyer's Administration Assistant Entry Level/ Level 1 (Full-Time / Permanent)

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile

ZSL is seeking a Buyer Administration Assistant who is keen to work in a fast-paced environment and will work well in a team. The BAA will assist in maximising the profitability of ZSL, within the Buying and Merchandising function through supporting effective sourcing, developing product concepts and buying fit for purpose ranges for the ZSL visitor, within budgeted parameters. In addition the BAA will assist the Junior Buyer and Assistant Buyer and contribute to the overall delivery of a profitable and commercial range, that maximises every sales opportunity. With guidance the post holder will assist in the delivery of purchasing, and development of product categories for the ZSL store portfolio. This will consist of daily communication and coordination with the Buying team to fulfil administration duties but also liaison with other departments within the company to ensure a smooth pipeline of deals.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Supports the Buying function in working closely with the Merchandising team to update the range plan and product packs
• Supports the Assistant Buyer in maintaining a range that represents a Good, Better, Best offer and a robust pricing architecture
• Sets up products and purchase orders in the system for sign off and sends to the supply base
• Product ordering for key commercial/product launch dates from the supplier base and supports internal departmental requests
• Assisting in sample management (ordering samples, mainatining the log and sample rotation)
• Assists in the maintenece of the mood boards for product and range development
• Maintans the critical path for the buying cycle
• Attends trade shows and inspiration shopping with the Junior and Assistant Buyers for category creation

Person Specification

• Educated to degree standard in a relevant subject or have equivalent qualification or relevant work experience.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office packages with numeracy and IT skills
• Good spoken and written communication skills.
• Ability to analyse data and reports.
• Ability to identify problems and implement appropriate solutions.
• A keen eye for detail with quantitative and qualitative data.
• Flexible and organised approach to workload.
• Adaptable and calm under pressure.
• Able to work independently or part of a team.
• Excellent work ethos to timekeeping.
• Full clean driving license as travel to both Whipsnade and London sites is a key part of the role.
• Travel if required within UK and Internationally.

Please Note: Whilst the role is based at London Zoo the functional nature of the job may require the post holder to also work at Whipsnade Zoo as and when necessary. As such a Full UK Driver’s License is desirable. This position is offered on a  permanent basis.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual looking for employment in a non-for-profit international organisation. You will have exposure to a variety of departments and people who have a passion for Animal Conservation.  An understanding of the Buying and Merchandising function would be beneficial but not essential, as you will receive full training. If you have the imagination to not only problem solve but create new opportunities to support the Commercial department within ZSL, then we would love to hear from you.

Benefits: This role offers a competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday, Stakeholder Pension Scheme, Subsidised staff restaurant and complimentary zoo tickets to the both London and Whipsnade Zoo.