Product Sourcing and Research Assistant

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Job Overview

We are seeking a meticulous and analytically-driven Product Sourcing and Research Assistant to support our strategic product development initiatives. The ideal candidate will leverage advanced research methodologies to identify, evaluate, and recommend high-quality products and suppliers that align with our business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Product Research
- Conduct comprehensive market research using platforms to identify potential product opportunities
- Develop rigorous evaluation criteria for product selection, including:
- Quality assessment against industry standards
- Price competitiveness analysis
- Supplier reputation verification
- Market demand potential
- Perform detailed comparative analyses of product alternatives
- Track and interpret emerging market trends and consumer preferences

Supplier Identification and Evaluation
- Execute thorough supplier research using platforms
- Systematically assess potential suppliers based on:
- Product range and specialization
- Manufacturing capabilities
- Quality consistency
- Pricing structures
- Supplier reputation and reliability
- Document and maintain a comprehensive supplier database with detailed profile information

Analytical Reporting and Presentation
- Prepare structured, data-driven reports that include:
- Detailed product/supplier overviews
- Comparative market research
- Justification for recommendations
- Potential product modifications or improvements
- Create clear, visually organized tables and documentation for easy review
- Provide actionable insights to support strategic decision-making

Research and Data Management
- Collect and validate product specifications, including:
- Technical dimensions
- Material compositions
- Features and functionalities
- Pricing and availability
- Maintain high standards of data accuracy and completeness
- Develop and implement systematic research methodologies

Required Skills and Competencies
- Advanced research capabilities with exceptional attention to detail
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Proficiency in:
- Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables)
- Data analysis and visualization tools
- Comprehensive reporting techniques
- Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, concise recommendations
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

Preferred Qualifications
- Strong research and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar tools for data collation and reporting.
- Attention to detail and ability to organize and synthesize large amounts of data.
- Experience in product sourcing, procurement, or a related field is a plus.
- Familiarity with industry trends and suppliers is advantageous.
- Proven experience in product sourcing, procurement, or market research
- Advanced Excel certification
- Familiarity with e-commerce platforms and supplier networks

Personal Attributes
- Proactive and self-motivated
- Highly organized with strong time management skills
- Collaborative team player
- Adaptable and quick learner
- Comfort with independent work and strategic problem-solving

Work Arrangement
- Remote position
- Flexible working hours

Why Join Us
This role offers an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented professional passionate about product discovery and strategic sourcing. If you thrive on research, enjoy analytical challenges, and want to drive business value through intelligent product selection, we want to hear from you!

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- Detailed resume
- Cover letter demonstrating research capabilities
- Example of a product or supplier research report (if available)

Recruitment Process
1. Online Personality Assessment
- Brief psychometric test (10-15 minutes)

2. Initial Video Interview
- 15-20 minute Zoom conversation
- Initial discussion and mutual fit assessment

3. Technical Assessment
- Online testing of research and documentation skills
- Duration: 24 hours
- Candidate may select their preferred date/time
- Test will be administered and timed remotely

4. In-Person Interview
- 60–90-minute discussion at our offices
- Detailed exploration of your experience and qualifications

5. Background Verification
- Internal verification process including:
• Reference checks
• Credit history review
• Criminal background check
• Qualification verification

6. Job Offer
- Formal offer to the successful candidate

We value transparency and appreciate your honesty.

*We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace.*