Job Description

Position summary
Industry: Wholesale & Retail Trade
Job category: Other: FMCG, Retail, Wholesale and Supply Chain
Location: Cape Town
Contract: Permanent
EE position: No
Introduction
We are looking for a detail-oriented and organised Buyer's Assistant to support our Buying team with product administration, sample management and preparation for key reviews and trade meetings. This role requires strong coordination, attention to detail and the ability to collaborate across multiple teams.
Job description
Administration & System Management

• Maintain and update PLM with accurate product data (e.g. images, colourways, packaging).
• Integrate items from PLM to RMS and notify Sourcing Specialist or SPA.
• Upload product photography and detail for approved bodies in PLM.
• Create and complete select sets for in-store shoots; update based on weekly Quad meeting feedback.
• Liaise with E-comm, Marketing, and Selling teams regarding product lates, earlies, and substitutions.
• Prepare price change documentation for approval and update cost/selling prices in RMS.
• Assist with weekly trade preparation and share item reports.
• Coordinate store visits, model stores, and roadshow communication.
• Support in-store processes by preparing sample rails in line with assortment plans.

Review Preparation

• Work with the Sourcing & Production Assistant to ensure samples are available for reviews.
• Prepare flow boards and presentation boards for Buying and Design teams.
• Set up review rooms (tidy layout, labels by month/store grade, and assist with review gridding and minute-taking).

Sample Management

• Organise and track samples from lab dips to production.
• Collaborate with TPD, Buying, and Sourcing on approvals for lab dips/strike-offs and sign-offs.
• Ensure sample availability for fit reviews and marketing deadlines.
• Coordinate samples with Online, Marketing, and Visual Merchandising teams.
• Manage sample rails to reflect product development stages.
• Prepare samples for trade, shoots, post-seasonal reviews, and the sample shop.
• Use production status, supplier updates, and trade feedback to inform product planning.

Minimum requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification.
• Minimum 2 years of admin experience in a retail/clothing environment.
• Experience in a similar buying support role is advantageous.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (intermediate level).
• Knowledge of PLM and RMS systems is an advantage.
• Strong understanding of retail procurement and product lifecycle processes.
• Familiar with sample management from lab dips to final production.
• Awareness of product review preparation and presentation techniques.
• Knowledge of creating and completing select sets for instore shoots and product solutions based on instructions.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills for stakeholder engagement.

Skills Required