Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and develop a buying team to conceptualise and implement the merchandise strategy for Totalsport in line with the overall company strategy Responsible for managing Totalsport own brand, branded apparel and accessories. Leading a diverse team, developing & growing individuals to reach their full potential. Developing local supply base to ensure shorter lead times and ability to trade in season. Support the buying team in building trend-led ranges within range/price architecture. Ensure successful execution of product / range strategy in store and online in collaboration with suppliers, brands, store operations, planning, marketing and logistics teams Establish and/or develop sustainable supplier relationships Building & maintaining relationships with key brand partners. Be a strategic thinker to adapt and maximise all business opportunities Ensure reliable source of supply through sound process and effective supplier relationships Negotiate terms with suppliers in line with overall margin, service and quality targets Ensure that assigned team is effectively resourced, directed, motivated and developed to enable team members to reach their full potential Drive and develop the performance of the team with a view to optimise delivery and achievement of objectives whilst effectively managing performance issues or concerns Be actively involved in relevant Group projects Building & maintaining relationships with stakeholders in the business to ensure overall results driven outcome across buying, planning, marketing & Operations. Margin management and reporting, as well as managing imports and forex

Qualifications and Experience:

Diploma, Graduate Degree, or Post Graduate Degree Minimum 2 - 3 years working experience at a management level, incl. people / team management Minimum 10 years relevant buying / merchandise experience is essential Proven track record in building and maintaining strategic supplier relationships Proven track record and ability to drive a merchandise strategy by demonstrating innovative and creative thinking Exceptional analytical ability to effectively evaluate and drive functional KPIs, incl. sales growth, PIS, CSOH, input- and maintained margins, stock turn, clearance Proven leadership and People management ability

Skills:

Planning & Organising Policy & Procedures Market Research and Analysis Supplier Management Requirements Analysis Global Sourcing

Behaviours:

Being Resilient - rebounding from setbacks and adversity when facing difficult situations. Builds Networks - establishes and nurtures internal and external relationships in order to create robust, and mutually beneficial, partnerships Cultivates Innovation - creates an environment that fosters and nurtures a culture of creativity which drives success Decision Quality - consistently makes timely, well-rounded and informed decisions Ensures Accountability - takes accountability and ensures others are held to account on agreed upon performance targets Manages Complexity - interprets and simplifies complex and contradictory information when resolving organisational problems Organisational Savvy - understands and navigates dynamics created by processes, systems, and people Situational Adaptability - effectively adjusts their behaviour, approach, and decision-making based on the situation Strategic Mindset - thinks and plans strategically, focusing on the long-term goals and objectives of the organisation

Preference will be given but not limited to candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act.