About Us
HEQS is an importer and distributor of furniture and homewares, with a vision to provide Australians with versatile options for quality products with an affordable price tag. To achieve our vision, we need a strategic procurement Assistant to enhance our online marketplace operations by focusing on different aspects of the workplace, from sourcing to marketing on online marketplaces to product delivery and after-sales service operators, to join our growing team.
Your role is to drive growth through performance by partnering with our suppliers to optimize their integration, leverage their strengths, and improve processes to ensure we exceed customer expectations.
Key Responsibilities
Product Procurement & Supply Chain Management
* Purchase supplies and materials essential for our furniture products.
* Determine the most cost-effective options without compromising quality.
* Track and record orders meticulously; receive goods and document arrivals.
* Analyse market and delivery systems to optimise supply chain efficiency.
* Monitor stock levels, identify purchasing needs, and place orders promptly.
* Source and interview vendors; negotiate contracts and costs to secure favourable terms.
* Analyse the supply base to ensure robust vendor selection.
Inventory & Stock Control
* Maintain updated records of purchased products, delivery information, and invoices.
* Liaise with warehouse staff to ensure all products arrive in excellent condition.
* Review the quality of purchased products to uphold our high standards.
* Cross-reference products with the production department for seamless integration.
* Monitor stock levels continuously and adjust purchasing strategies as needed.
Market Analysis & Product Development
* Conduct in-depth market research and competitor analysis to spot trends and opportunities.
* Utilise AI technology and market trend analysis to inform product development decisions.
* Analyse sales data and supplier performance metrics, including NPS and customer reviews.
* Work proactively with suppliers and internal teams to enhance product offerings.
Supplier Relations & Business Development
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, clients, customers, team members, and managers to align goals.
* Identify supplier strengths and opportunities for growth through strategic partnerships.
* Identify blockers to supplier growth targets and collaborate on innovative solutions.
* Represent HEQS Wholesales with professionalism to ensure we remain the retailer of choice in the furniture and homewares industry.
* Engage with eCommerce platform buyers to drive business growth and expand our market presence.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
* Organise and schedule procurements to ensure timely delivery.
* Prepare requisitions and purchase orders accurately.
* Monitor order expenses and communicate performance and costs to management.
* Recommend new processes or systems for improvement; implement innovative ideas and strategies.
* Operate equipment safely and follow all safety procedures.
* Comply with the scorecard measurement system to track values and performance metrics.
* Thoroughly understand HEQS operational processes to enhance customer experience, supplier relations, and category performance.
Eligibility & Skills
Experience & Education
* Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Import Purchasing Officer, Purchasing Assistant, Category Management
* Proven experience in Category Management and Product Development within the furniture industry.
* Minimum 2 years' experience in furniture or homewares retail/wholesale operations
* Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
* Professional certifications in procurement (CIPS, APICS) or category management are desirable but not essential
* Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work visa required
* The successful candidate will undergo standard background checks, including reference and employment verification
Technical Skills
* Good knowledge of vendor sourcing practices (researching, evaluating, and liaising with vendors).
* Hands-on experience with purchasing software (e.g., Pronto) is an advantage.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and other analytical tools.
* High level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel, SQL, and other analytical tools.
* Intermediate SQL skills for data querying and analysis (joins, aggregations, basic reporting) - essential for the role
* Understanding of supply chain procedures and logistics knowledge.
* Essential: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems. Preferred: Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Pronto purchasing software experience
Industry Knowledge
* Interest and experience in e-commerce.
* Experience managing supplier relationships on Amazon Seller Central, eBay for Business, or similar B2B marketplace platforms
* A genuine passion for homewares and furniture.
* Ability to analyse market trends and utilise AI for market analysis.
* Preferred experience with ChatGPT, Google Bard, or market intelligence platforms like Mintel or Euromonitor
Analytical & Organisational Skills
* Solid analytical skills with the ability to create financial reports and conduct cost analyses.
* Excellent organisational skills to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
* Ability to prepare reports on purchases and present findings.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
* Exceptional negotiation and communication skills.
* Demonstrated experience negotiating supplier contracts and managing vendor relationships
* Experience negotiating contracts worth $5m+ annually and managing supplier terms and conditions
* Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
* Ability to liaise effectively with suppliers, warehouse staff, and internal departments.
Mindset & Approach
* Proactive and results-driven with a flair for innovation.
* Solid problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
* Committed to continuous improvement and professional development.
Benefits
Competitive salary package reflective of your skills and experience.
* Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
* A supportive and vibrant work environment.
* Generous employee discounts on our extensive furniture range.
* Access to ongoing training and development programs to enhance your skills.
How to Apply
If you're a motivated professional with a knack for furniture product development and category management, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter that highlights your relevant experience and explains why you're the perfect fit for our team.