Import Buyer

About the role

We are looking for an Import Buyer to join a small‑sized retail company in Skelmersdale. The successful candidate will manage product imports, coordinate with suppliers and internal teams, and help drive growth in a fast‑moving environment.

Key responsibilities

• Manage key customer accounts (including B&M and The Works) and provide weekly updates on order progress.
• Create and monitor detailed critical paths for all confirmed orders from development through to final delivery.
• Raise purchase orders with Far East factories and manage them through SAP, including item code set‑up.
• Maintain strong relationships with factories, conduct audits, understand capabilities, and negotiate the best pricing.
• Handle product development and sampling, sending artwork, packaging, colour proofs, swatches and managing sample approvals.
• Monitor factory production status, arrange container fills, coordinate with the Shipping Department and perform QC checks on stock upon warehouse arrival.
• Undertake additional duties as required by the Buying Team Leader or Managing Director.

Required profile

• Experience in import buying or procurement within a retail or manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to work closely with sales, design, shipping, warehousing and factory teams.
• Strong organisational skills with a focus on meeting critical deadlines.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

Required skills

• SAP

What we offer

• Competitive salary between £28,000 and £34,000 per year.
• Full‑time permanent role based onsite in Skelmersdale.
• Opportunity to develop expertise in international supply chain and product development.