Job Description

BUYER SPECIALIST PAINT CATEGORY
Location: Paarl
Salary: R30,000 R35,000 CTC
Are you a sharp negotiator with a passion for products, an eye for detail, and the drive to excel in a fast-paced retail environment?
Join a leading FMCG retailer as our next Category Buyer, where youll shape product ranges, strengthen supplier partnerships, and play a key role in delivering exceptional value to customers.
What Were Looking For

• Were searching for a proactive, results-driven Buyer with strong analytical ability and excellent relationship-building skills.
• Bachelors Degree in Procurement
• 2+ years relevant experience, preferably in the FMCG retail sector/stores
• Specialist paint knowledge and experience in paint procurement
• Strong category background with a genuine interest in expanding procurement skills
• Advanced MS Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Confident negotiator with the ability to secure competitive deals
• Valid drivers license + own reliable transport (travel required)
• Willingness to work extended hours during peak trading periods

What You Will Do
As the central link between our business and the supplier network, youll help build winning product assortments and secure high-quality, cost-effective supply.
Your key responsibilities include:

• Category & Supplier Management
• Act as primary liaison for all supplier interactions
• Build, develop, and maintain strong supplier relationships
• Evaluate supplier capacity, quality, and performance to support category strategy
• Drive continuous improvement and supplier performance enhancements
• Procurement & Negotiation
• Identify opportunities to simplify assortments and optimise product ranges
• Drive category-specific product development initiatives

• Support seasonal planning and long-term procurement strategies
• Negotiate pricing, term deals, and resolve any pricing discrepancies
• Demand & Stock Management
• Collaborate with the Category team to define seasonal demand plans
• Determine optimal stock assortments for each branch
• Place purchase orders aligned to demand forecasts and unexpected needs
• Communicate supply constraints proactively to prevent disruptions
• Data & Systems
• Maintain accurate purchase price files within the ERP system
• Monitor stock movement and supplier lead times to ensure availability

Key Leadership Attributes
Were looking for someone who brings more than technical skill someone who brings impact.

• Ability to handle complexity and find clarity
• Strong, pragmatic decision-making
• High self-awareness and emotional intelligence
• Strong drive for achievement and continuous improvement

Skills Required