Allocator

We’re a much-loved brand with an exciting future. Our Islanders are a diverse bunch of bright, talented people who love working together – and are proud of the work they do. Progression here can take you in all kinds of directions.

This is what a career at River Island is like. And this is where yours starts.

The Distribution Hub ensures the right stock is in the right place at the right time to maximise sales opportunities and minimise markdown. Through partnerships across Wholesale, Ecomm, Retail, Franchise and Core Merchandising, the Distribution Hub manages allocations for the entire business across all channels, using systems expertise to achieve optimum channel allocations, and ultimately create the best customer experience. The Allocator is accountable for accurately allocating stock by channel according to agreed distribution plans.

Key Accountabilities:

• Provides administrative and analytical support to the Distribution Merchandising Team
• Utilises Nextail to accurately allocate stock to all channels – Wholesale, Ecomm, Stores and Franchise - in line with distribution plan
• Through strong relationships with Core Merchandising counterparts, and good knowledge of capacity, option plan and sales trends, make informed decisions on allocations
• By reviewing available reporting, including Nextail parameters, ensure optimal replenishment and first allocations are achieved
• Through regular monitoring of key line availability, and make allocation adjustments to ensure stock is where the demand is
• Supports the delivery of promotional, peak and markdown activity and launch dates through timely and accurate allocations
• Analyses and interprets sales trends and subsequent stock forecasts
• Understands when ad hoc reporting is required, and uses these to analyse product performance to support trading decisions
• Conducts regular store visits and website reviews, as well as nurturing partnerships with Wholesale, Ecomm, Franchise and Core merchandising counterparts to build channel and product knowledge, and to develop an informed view
• Prepares and supports distribution meetings
• Works cross functionally with Core Merchandising and channel teams to identify improvements to streamline ways of working and create agility

What We Are Looking For...

• This is an entry-level role, experience in Retail or as an Allocator or MAA not essential; a track record that demonstrates good work ethic is a must
• No specific qualifications are required for this role, just an analytical mindset, the ability to learn quickly and apply that learning
• Strong analytical skills
• Good verbal and numerical skills
• Intermediate MS Office skills, strong Excel skills
• Computer literate and ability to learn new systems
• Highly organised, good prioritisation and time management skills
• Collaborative, with strong interpersonal skills and team-orientation
• Good commercial and market awareness
• Disciplined and conscientious, results-oriented
• Resilient and adaptable
• Curious, continuous learning mindset
• A keen interest in Product and the River Island brand is a must

This Is For You...

• Discount - Generous 50% staff discount so you can treat yourself & a bargain staff shop, all onsite!
• RI Rewards - Reducing Islanders everyday expenses through discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more with Reward Gateway!
• Island culture - We have a free onsite gym, subsidised restaurant & café & various social events throughout the year. We also work closely with the Retail Trust to create dedicated support for all our Islanders!
• Work that stays at work - Flexible working is a given, on top of payday early finishes and Summer Fridays
• Family Hub - Every family is unique, we support Islanders with all different family setups enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption & fertility treatment
• Giver Island - Give as you earn scheme, a ‘Giver Island’ day each year and matched funding
• Training on the job - Support with upskilling skills through on the job training and qualifications
• Pension - A contributory private pension scheme
• Holiday - 23 days paid holiday, exclusive of Bank Holidays. With the added option to purchase additional holiday for whatever the need!

We mentioned the discount, right?

Keeping You Safe...

At River Island we are committed to the safeguarding of all of our employees regardless of age or job role. We will fulfil our obligation under the Prevent duty which seeks to stop extremism and extremist views from materialising in our business. We promote and encourage the belief in British Values- including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.

Every Islander Counts