THE ROLE & THE TEAM

At Zalando SE, we are seeking a proactive and sport-minded Assistant Buyer to join our dynamic Sports Category Management team. We’re looking for someone who is passionate about active lifestyles, emerging trends in sportswear, and driven to shape an inspiring assortment that caters to sports enthusiasts.

In this role, you will play a key part in curating and optimising our product selection – from performance apparel and footwear to accessories and equipment – while supporting a smooth and efficient ordering process. You’ll work closely with our sports suppliers and collaborate cross-functionally with teams such as Planning, Logistics, Content Production, and Marketing.

You will support your team across analytical, operational, and creative tasks, taking ownership of order preparation, system uploads, and selected performance KPIs. Through your work, you’ll contribute to both the commercial success and the category vision of Zalando Sports, helping deliver an excellent experience to our customers.

INCLUSIVE BY DESIGN

At Zalando, our vision is to be inclusive by design. And this vision starts with our hiring - we do not discriminate on the basis of gender identity, sexual orientation, personal expression, ethnicity, religious belief, or disability status. You are welcome to leave out your picture, age, or marital status from your application. We only assess candidates on their qualifications and merit.

We want to provide you with a great candidate experience. Feel free to inform us of any accommodations you may need, so we can best support you throughout the hiring process.

https://corporate.zalando.com/en/our-impact/dobetter-our-diversity-and-inclusion-strategy

Our employee resource groups: https://corporate.zalando.com/en/our-impact/our-employee-resource-groups

WHAT WE'D LOVE YOU TO DO (AND LOVE DOING)

Ensure all operational processes are completed to a high standard, using Zalando’s Buying tools and systems to manage order creation and execution.
Begin to plan, buy, and develop your own small assortment area, taking ownership of key performance KPIs and communicating Zalando’s strategy to selected brand partners.
Support the team with marketing initiatives and trend-related topics, contributing to the unit’s creative and commercial strategy.
Prepare product-based analyses to support trading decisions and build proposals for assortment selection and line planning.
Gradually join strategic and trading meetings independently for a defined set of brands.
Assist with day-to-day operational tasks including order creation, maintenance, cancellations, and follow-up to ensure process accuracy and timeliness.
Act as a key contact for a broad supplier base, supporting buyers in setting up and maintaining condition contracts.
Collaborate closely with the Planning team to ensure product availability and alignment on commercial targets.

WE'D LOVE TO MEET YOU IF...

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Fashion Management, or a related field.
Initial experience (approx. 1 year) in Buying or Merchandising at an assistant level, with a strong passion for and understanding of the Sports industry.
You thrive in fast-paced environments, take initiative, and collaborate effectively. You manage your workload with structure and precision, ensuring timely, accurate, and well-prioritised execution.
Proficient in MS Office and Google Workspace tools, with a data-driven mindset and an eye for product. You combine a strong analytical skillset with a good understanding of fashion trends and consumer preferences across the European sports market.

OUR OFFER

Zalando provides a range of benefits, here’s an overview of what you can expect. Ask your Talent Acquisition Partner to learn more about what we offer.

Employee shares program
40% off fashion and beauty products sold and shipped by Zalando, 30% off Zalando Lounge, discounts from external partners
2 paid volunteering days a year
Hybrid working model with 60% (or more) remote per week, actual practice is up to each team to best support their collaboration
Work from abroad for up to 30 working days a year
27 days of vacation a year (for Zalando SE)
Relocation assistance available (subject to prior agreement)
Family services, including counseling and support
Health and wellbeing options (including Gympass)
Mental health support and coaching available

Assistant Buyer - Sports (all genders)

Application Form