Company Description Gift Republic, founded in 2006, is a creative gift company known for original concepts such as Adopt A Star and Become a Laird or Lady. Building on early success, the company has expanded into unique gift experiences, animal adoptions in partnership with charities, and distinctive homeware and novelty ranges sold in stores worldwide. Gift Republic focuses on bold, eye-catching designs that appeal to a diverse and growing customer base. The team is driven by continuous innovation, regularly developing new products that stand out in the gifting market. This culture of creativity and collaboration supports an energetic environment for individuals interested in product development and retail innovation.
Role Description The Junior NPD/Buyer role is a full-time, hybrid position based in Wimbledon, with some flexibility to work from home. In this role, the individual supports the new product development (NPD) process by researching market trends, contributing ideas for new gift concepts, and assisting in the creation of product briefs and specifications. The role involves working closely with designers and suppliers to source materials, negotiate pricing, track samples, and ensure products meet quality and brand standards. The Junior NPD/Buyer helps prepare and maintain product data, including costs, margins, and SKUs, and supports ordering, stock monitoring, and supplier communication. Day-to-day tasks include administrative support for the buying and design teams, coordinating timelines, and helping ensure products launch on schedule and within budget.
Qualifications
- Foundational experience or strong interest in product development, buying, or merchandising within retail or consumer goods.
- Ability to conduct market and trend research, analyze customer insights, and contribute creative ideas for new products.
- Strong organizational and administrative skills, including managing spreadsheets, product data, and timelines with attention to detail.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with internal teams, suppliers, and external partners. Far east experince essential.
- Numeracy skills for costings, margin calculations, and order quantities; confidence using Excel or similar tools.
- Proactive, resourceful approach with the ability to prioritize tasks and work to deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience or education in business, product design, buying, merchandising, or a related field is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Enthusiasm for creative, novelty, and gifting products and willingness to learn and grow within the role.
- Knowledge of product lifecycle, CP management, and Compliance/ testing regulations.