Data & Operations Assistant

At NEXT Wholly Owned Brands, we’re a collective of London-based fashion and lifestyle brands. From our beginnings with Lipsy in 1998, to becoming part of the UK’s largest fashion retailer, NEXT, in 2008 we’ve evolved into a group of bold, design-led brands, each with its unique identity.

In 2020, NEXT Plc and Victoria’s Secret were delighted to enter into a joint venture, trading the iconic brand in stores and online with the UK. Following this, in 2021 we entered into a joint venture with GAP, relaunching the much-loved brand in the UK via online and stores across the UK.

At the heart of our business is a passionate team driven by creativity, innovation, and a shared ambition to deliver exceptional results. We foster a culture where individuality is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, and challenging the status quo is part of how we grow.

Purpose of the Data & Operatons Assistant

The Data & Operations Assistant partners closely with the Business & Data Analysts to ensure the effective management of product data, reporting and system processes within a fast-paced retail environment. This role will help to shape smarter processes and solve cross-functional challenges that drive efficiency and business success.

The role includes using Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft PowerBI, Databricks and Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services to extract insights, support cross-functional communication, and grow into a subject matter expert in our internal systems.

Responsibilities of the Data & Operations Assistant

Product Data & System Management:

• Support the end-to-end setup of new brand systems set up as part of a fast-moving, high-impact project
• Manage the product exclusion summary within the Next Product System (NPS), conducting weekly checks of item exclusions on the GB website
• Oversee requests and issues from wider functions within Asana, ensuring a timely resolution and clear ownership of issues
• Supporting Business and Data Analysts with price promotions for multiple partners, ensuring accurate setup and timely execution
• Act as a subject matter expert for relevant systems, ensuring best practices are followed and providing guidance to product teams
• Manage system structure maintenance across departments

Data Management & Reporting:

• Support the development of SQL and Databricks datasets and reports for internal team processes and wider business analysis
• Contribute to reporting and operational tasks using Power BI
• Build, maintain, and manage Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services reports

Process Improvement & Documentation

• Maintain and update the Reporting & Operations dates and deadlines in Asana to provide visibility of key milestones
• Communicate key dates, process updates, and operational changes clearly across the business
• Liaise with stakeholders within NEXT, providing business context and informed decision-making to optimise system support and enhancements
• Proactively seek process improvements with the support of the Business & Data Analysts

What Next is looking for…

Required:

• Proactive, forward-thinking approach with the confidence to challenge existing processes constructively
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to understand functionality and identify improvements
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective working relationships
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment

Beneficial:

• Familiarity with Microsoft SQL Server and basic SQL querying
• Exposure to Power BI or other data visualisation/reporting tools
• Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)
• Comfortable using Microsoft Excel and Google Workspace

Next Benefits:

• 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Hot deals and exclusive offers from over 3,500 retailers through our online benefits platform
• Company performance based bonus
• Early VIP access to sale stock via Direct to Desk
• Life assurance
• Sharesave scheme
• Annual Travel Card Loan
• Sample Sales
• Fantastic L&D opportunities
• Flexi-Hour Scheme
• Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
• Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
• Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more