Junior Buyer

The Buyer will report and operate under the direction of the Head of Buying with the following tasks and responsibilities:

• Researching, sourcing, and developing products, ensuring the best range offering for our market.
• Understanding the target market and analysing trends to make informed buying decisions.
• Building relationships with suppliers and negotiating with them for the best prices, quantities, and delivery timescales.
• Competitive shopping and market analysis.
• Understanding of retail pricing ladders and cost implications.
• Monitoring the stock quality and escalating discrepancies to suppliers and management.
• Running and analysing reports on regular basis.
• Communicating and coordinating with the team and suppliers.
• Assisting the Head of Buying in planning promotional activities.
• Visit stores regularly and build a trust relationship with the stores, Operations Manager and Ops Team.
• Travel to meet suppliers, source products and attend trade fairs when required.
• The main focus categories will be toiletry, household and novelty.

The Buyer should possess the following skills, qualities, and qualifications:

• Creative mind set and product flair.
• Good understanding of the target market.
• Commercial awareness.
• Ability to make decisions.
• Analytical skills.
• Manage assistant Buyers.
• Math skills.
• Interpersonal skills, particularly in negotiating.
• Ability to multi-task and to work well in a team.
• Good organisational skills.
• Drive and determination.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to cope under pressure and to adapt to changing situations.
• Capability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-starter and able to work with minimum supervision;
• Hands-on, team player, passionate, confident, and disciplined.
• Proficiency in using Excel / PowerPoint / Outlook.
• 3-4 years’ experience in a buying role

Minimum Requirements:

• Matric.
• Relevant Diploma or Degree would be an added advantage.
• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role in a Retail / FMCG environment.
• Strong purchasing skills.
• Valid driver’s licence and own reliable vehicle.

ADDITIONAL:

This is a demanding role, we are looking for true go-getters with high levels of energy. Must be vivacious and robust and willing to go the extra mile in getting the job done. An exceptional opportunity for the individual who is career-orientated.