Buying & Product Development Assistant in Sydney

Are Direct is the largest independent distributor and wholesaler of printed media in Australia and New Zealand, managing the distribution and promotion of millions of magazines into over 3,000 retailers throughout New Zealand. Are Direct is a core business within Are Media, with a portfolio that includes some of Australia’s most iconic and trusted brands.

What we can offer you:

• Flexible work options depending on the needs of the business.
• Additional paid leave, including a day off to celebrate your birthday, four days of volunteer leave each year, and inclusive leave provisions supporting reproductive, hormonal and wellbeing needs.
• Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks, plus a parenting gift pack, meal vouchers and return-to-work support.
• Opportunities to grow and develop, with access to tailored learning pathways, mentoring, Lunch & Learns, our Digital Learning Academy and professional development support.
• A comprehensive wellbeing program including EAP, Mental Health First Aiders, and a personalised online wellbeing portal.
• Exclusive benefits and discounts, including Fitness Passport memberships, discounted health insurance, beauty services, technology and a range of lifestyle offers.
• A genuinely inclusive culture, supported through our BELONG @ Are program.

The Role:

Kick-start your career in buying and product development with Are Media's distribution arm, Are Direct! This is a great first step into a career in buying and product development, giving you hands-on exposure to how products move from an initial idea through sourcing, development and ultimately into market.

As Merchandise Product Coordinator within Are Direct’s buying team, you’ll support the development of private-label and exclusive product ranges across multiple categories. Working closely with the Head Buyer and broader Buying, Marketing and Operations teams, you’ll help coordinate the overseas product development program by working with suppliers, factories and sourcing agents.

The role spans product development, range planning, supplier coordination, sales analysis, compliance and product launches. It’s an entry-level opportunity for someone who wants to build a career in buying.

What you’ll be doing:

• Coordinate product development across private-label and exclusive ranges, managing samples, product information, range plans, approvals and launch timelines from concept through to market.
• Work with overseas suppliers, factories and sourcing agents to coordinate quotations, specifications, samples, production timelines and orders.
• Support commercial decision-making through sales reporting, trend and competitor analysis and range planning.
• Bring new products to market by coordinating product data, testing and QA documentation, packaging and imagery.

About you:

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Around a year of experience in a commercial, retail, wholesale, customer service or office environment.
• Strong organisation and attention to detail.
• Confidence working with numbers and information, including Excel and reporting.
• A proactive, collaborative approach and strong communication skills.

Are Media is committed to fostering diverse, respectful, collaborative & inclusive workplace. We welcome & encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.