Location: Watford (WD24)
Salary: £28,000–£30,000 (DOE)
Progression: Up to £35,000 within 12–18 months
Job Type: Full-time
About the Role
BB Designs is seeking a proactive Category Manager to support the development and production of licensed gifting products, including stationery, pens, keychains, drinkware, and accessories.
This role is suited to someone with previous experience in buying, sourcing, or production who wants to pursue a long-term career in Buying. You will gain hands-on experience across product development, supplier management, costings, and category planning while working with global factories and retailers.
Key ResponsibilitiesProduct Development
- Support the development of licensed gifting and drinkware products
- Assist with materials, specifications, artwork coordination, and sampling
- Coordinate product approvals and revisions with suppliers
- Ensure products meet retailer and licensor requirements
Production & Supplier Management
- Liaise with overseas factories in China & other regions.
- Track production schedules and maintain critical paths
- Identify and escalate production risks or delays
- Support packaging, labelling, and compliance processes
Buying & Commercial Support
- Assist with costings, pricing, and margin tracking
- Maintain Excel trackers and buying sheets
- Support product selection and range planning
General Support
- Collaborate with internal teams across design, logistics, and sales
- Assist with shipment and delivery coordination
- Help improve operational processes and workflows
RequirementsEssential
- 2+ years’ experience in buying, sourcing, or production
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Good Excel skills
- Strong communication and multitasking abilities
- Fluent English
- UK work authorisation with a minimum of 1.5 years remaining
Desirable
- Experience in gifting, stationery, accessories, or drinkware
- Experience working with overseas factories
- Understanding of materials and product specifications
- Knowledge of compliance standards including CE and UKCA
- Mandarin or additional languages
Working Pattern
- Office-based in Watford (WD24)
- First 3 months fully office-based
- Up to 2 days WFH after probation
- Monday–Thursday: 9:00–18:00
- Friday: 9:00–16:30
Benefits
- Casual dress
- Free on-site parking
- Early finish on Fridays
- Statutory annual leave
- Clear progression opportunities
Apply
If you already have relevant experience and want to grow your career in Buying within a fast-moving licensed consumer products business, apply now.
Pay: £28,000.00-£30,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
