Job Description

An exciting opportunity has become available at Shoe City Support office within the Merchandise department, for a Buyer. The successful candidate must be proactive, assertive and a confident go-getter, who can assist the team in adding strategic value to the brand by being responsible for the procurement and building of the footwear range, in accordance with company strategies. Our ideal candidate will be self-motivated, passionate about performance and will have the high energy level required for this fast-paced, exciting and dynamic retail environment.

Key Responsibilities

• To achieve and exceed the Companyxe2x80x99s inflow margin,sales targets and GP Rands as signed off at the seasonal business plan meetings.
• To influence, drive and execute the seasonal product and purchasing strategy.
• To be responsible for researching, understanding and executing the relevant seasonal trends in line with the target market.
• To build a competitive product range according to the purchasing strategy.
• To source & select the correct supplier for the appropriate product category and manage them according to the Company policies and procedures.
• To ensure the timeous execution of procurement administration to meet the target dates in the critical path of the supply chain.
• To source and procure products within the agreed quality specifications & standards.
• To ensure compliance with agreed quality specifications & standards.
• To develop and influence cross-functional partnerships with all specified key relationships.

Qualifications

• A Grade 12 certificate or equivalent is an essential requirement.
• A diploma or bachelorxe2x80x99s degree in the related field will be advantageous.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A minimum of 5 years proven retail experience in footwear buying/procurement or experience within footwear manufacturing environment is essential.
• A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of footwear constructions and materials is Essential.
• A working knowledge of the latest Google packages (Slides & Sheets) and/or Microsoft is required.
• Be passionate about keeping up to date with the latest trends.
• Must be able to travel internationally.
• Is able to build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers.
• Is innovative, shows initiative and has a strong trader mentality.
• Have strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Have excellent relationship-building and networking skills.
• Is able to communicate effectively at all levels both within, as well as outside the company.
• Is a strong negotiator and is able to secure win-win agreements with others.
• Is able to be assertive and is focused on achieving deadlines.
• Is able to remain flexible, function under pressure and maintain a positive attitude and work performance in a variety of circumstances.
• Have excellent time management, organizing skills, administrative skills and presentation skills.
• Has a strong sense of integrity, and is honest and ethical in everything they do.