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Stock Co-ordinator, Niwaki Chiltern Street, London

To apply for this role, please first read the full job description.

Then, if you fit the bill, please email your CV and a supporting statement telling us what you can bring to this role to careers@niwaki.com.

Reporting to Niwaki Product Development and Procurement Manager

– Overall purpose –

To co-ordinate and support Niwaki’s product development, procurement and logistics

– Main work location –

Initially at Chiltern street and then in a central London location nearby

– Hours –

37.5 per week, typically 9 to 5 and some flex working hours for Japanese time

– Contract –

Permanent

– Main duties –

Co-ordinate the stock procurement and management processes and ensure the database is up to date at all times. Specifically:

  • Ensure product information is up to date, e.g. new or amended product specifications, prices and price increases, faulty products, accessory products, partnership/branded products, etc.
  • Ensure stock level records are accurately maintained at all times
  • Create and manage barcodes, ensuring accurate up to date records are kept
  • Ensure anticipated production and delivery timelines are recorded and kept up to date
  • Record key supplier information, changes, such as contact details, etc.
  • Carry out regular audits and reporting as required and ensure key internal stakeholders are kept up to date

Liaise with Niwaki Warehouse re stock management, including:

  • Scheduling and arrivals, e.g. change in shipping dates, etc
  • Issues and queries relating to stock levels including barcoding, stock availability and adjustments, low stock, accessory products, partnership/branded products, etc.
  • Closely monitor stock arrivals against purchase orders and invoices to identify discrepancies
  • Issues relating to quality or damaged stock

Work with Niwaki Japan and Niwaki suppliers on stock procurement and management to the UK to ensure:

  • Timely placement of stock orders, e.g. new/replacement stock including obtaining quotes, setting up purchase orders, recording key/contract information
  • Liaison regarding estimated delivery schedules, e.g. changes, delays, etc
  • Resolving queries and issues relating to quality or damaged stock
  • Arranging sample shipping
  • Co-ordinate procurement and delivery from suppliers to Niwaki Japan as needed
  • Co-ordinate the procurement and delivery of ‘accessory’ stock, e.g. tags, packaging, clothing and other labels etc.
  • Maintain good working relationships with suppliers and manufacturers

Support the Product Manager in the creation and management of a well-managed production plan, and specifically:

  • Prepare reports to support the Product Manager in decision-making
  • Provide general administrative support to the Product Manager
  • Provide regular updates to the Head of Marketing and Wholesale Manager on new and current stock procurement and lead / estimated delivery timelines
  • Keep up to date with Niwaki Marketing and Events planning to anticipate stock demand, e.g. increased demand, demand for specific products, etc.
  • Liaison with suppliers when they are at maximum production capacity to identify solutions and communicate back to key internal stakeholders

Support the Product Manager with longer-term planning, forecasting and other product development work, including:

  • Development of new products and specifications
  • Development of new suppliers, e.g. dedicated Niwaki textile partner
  • The development of new labelling and packaging, including certification and compliance with international labelling requirements, e.g. care labels
  • Liaison with suppliers regarding the development, production and procurement of special lines, e.g. for Niwaki partner brands

– Other duties –

  • Undertake any other reasonable duties, as directed, e.g. helping at Niwaki Chiltern Street
  • Deputise for the Product Manager, and attend Managers’ Meetings as necessary
  • Attend and work at any location, e.g. Niwaki HQ, Niwaki Japan, Niwaki shows and events
  • Willingness to travel in the UK and occasional travel overseas may be required.

– Personal –

  •  Fluent English and Japanese speaker
  • Strong knowledge of Japanese culture, customs and ways of communicating
  • Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships
  • Strong, clear articulate communicator
  • Well organised with an ability to plan and manage competing priorities
  • Close attention to detail and accuracy e.g. numerical data
  • Ability to work independently in fast paced environment and deal with change
  • Strong IT skills and confident in learning new systems
  • A strong understanding of Niwaki ethos essential
  • Knowledge of etiquette and ability to operate within Japanese business environment
  • Some experience in stock control, ordering and fulfillment
  • Strong understanding of customer service and customer-focused
  • Ability to work as part of a team
  • Can-do approach and a proactive problems solver
  • Understands the need for and maintains confidentiality
  • Previous experience in a similar role, e.g. product procurement, buying or related field is an advantage
  • Knowledge of procurement processes, supplier negotiation, and product development cycles is a plus.
  • Ability to travel and attend Niwaki HQ, and/or other shows
  • Right to work in the UK and leave to remain in the UK