Import Buyer
Manchester, England, gb
Most companies claim to have the best people. We say to them, "Keep dreaming." Our people are second to none. They set us apart with their entrepreneurial spirit and ambition. They come to us from the likes of Amazon, Microsoft, Nordstrom, Starbucks and the sports world, bringing energy, bold ideas and a willingness to dive into the unfamiliar. It's our people that make BDA the top global Merchandise Agency to work for.
Manage portfolio of critical orders and execute them on time, on quality, and on budget.
Improve existing, and establish new processes and documentation to efficiently manage the following key areas of responsibility:
Work collaboratively with teams in the US and China
Develop and maintain strong, collaborative partnerships with internal clients and other departments
Project Management
Work with internal and external clients to manage strategic and tactical aspects of key projects: SOW, scope, issues/risks, schedule, estimates, budget, quality, communication, team and client relationships on a daily basis
Set up and participate in project kick-off, status, and review meetings
Ensure project requirements are clearly scoped, communicated and delivered
Establish work plans for key projects to include contributing stakeholders, inter-departmental work groups, and Creative Services teams
Manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Ensure projects are completed within budget and on time
Ensure that all work maintains the high quality standards demanded by BDA and its clients
Close, bill, and report on key projects
Additional duties as assigned by Manager
Any travel involved? Limited, as needed for client meetings, vendor management and select eventsAny financial/budgetary responsibility? YesStrategic planning responsibilities? YesNumber of staff reporting to this position: 0 – potential in future
Experience Requirements
BA degree with business experience in manufacturing, project management or related field
5 years of purchasing, project, logistics, materials, production,
Resource, and vendor management experience working with Chinese factories
Strong Negotiation skills
Exception Customer Service Skills with the ability to determine both internal and external customer needs.
Strong understanding of cost drivers including manufacturing, materials, labor, duty and shipping rates.
Job Skills & Traits
Project management experience with scope, schedule, budget, and resource tracking
Excellent problem solving skills
Experience in a fast-paced creative environment
Bobble/toy/action figure experience (poly resin) highly valued
Able to manage to a balance between productivity and quality
Experience working with and managing external vendors
Expert use of MS Office including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Solid organizational, time-management, negotiating, presentation, communication, and writing skills
Ability to work closely and effectively with other members of sales, purchasing, product development groups and clients
Maintain a high level of professionalism when interacting with co-workers and clients.
Promote high level of customer service to ensure smooth operations and satisfied internal partners/clients
Promote positive image
Maintain exceptional attendance and punctuality
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels
Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure
Job Type: Full-time
BDA is more than a workplace - it’s a family. For more than three decades we’ve promoted a vibrant and welcoming culture that not only accepts but demands you to be different. The quirky, the bold, the creative and the unique make up the foundation of a company that the most iconic brands in the world look to help tell their story through the power of merchandise.