Junior Buyer: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Junior Buyer
Practice Interviews Online - Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Junior Buyer mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now »What is a Junior Buyer?
As a Junior Buyer in the UK, you'll be responsible for assisting in the purchase of various items, such as raw materials, equipment, and merchandise from different suppliers. This role includes tasks like researching suppliers, negotiating deals, and ensuring products are suitable for wholesale distribution or internal use.
Skills
- Strong negotiation skills
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Ability to work under pressure
- Excellent communication skills
- Knowledge of supply chain management
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other relevant software
- Understanding of market trends and pricing
- Time management and organizational skills
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic requirements
- Some employers expect A levels/H grades, BTEC/SQA awards or degrees
- Specific experience may be required for certain roles
- Professional qualifications in Procurement at Levels 2, 3 and 4 are available
- NVQs/SVQs in Procurement at Levels 2, 3 and 4 are available
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a junior buyer in the UK, you can start as an assistant buyer and work your way up or obtain a qualification in retail or business. You can also gain experience in retail on the shop-floor, in visual merchandising, or as an admin assistant in a buyer's office.
Yes, junior buyer is an entry-level position in the retail industry.
A junior buyer in the UK helps companies with purchasing decisions and processes, and can be involved in all stages of bringing merchandise to shelves for consumers to purchase. They may contribute to discussions on which products to carry, such as prom dresses for a clothing chain in the spring.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Junior Buyer mock interview, under 10 minutes
Practice Now