Cape Town Region: Buyer posted by Cape Union Mart International Ltd

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has become available at our Head Office in Cape Town for an experienced Buyer within the Travel and Commute Division. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing, developing and managing a compelling range of own brand products as well as managing a wide assortment of branded accessories.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, develop and maintain a commercially strong own-brand product range across a variety of accessory categories
• Develop ranges and manage relationships with external global brands
• Oversee all buying administration within the department
• Work closely with the Merchandise Planner to manage Open-to-Buy
• Prepare and present range reviews to management
• Ensure all product imagery is available and suitable for E-commerce
• Own and manage marketing briefs, ensuring relevant and appropriate products are presented
• Stay abreast of local and global consumer product trends
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure on-time product launches in line with internal critical paths and market release dates
• Deliver a commercially sound range that meets quality standards, customer needs and product trends
• Ensure product pricing is: In line with market expectations for branded products Within gross profit targets and pricing policy
• Conduct and present competitor analysis at least once per season
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities
• Select, source and manage reliable suppliers
• Negotiate rebate agreements with external suppliers and ensure timely payout
• Minimise risk by monitoring high-risk suppliers (delivery, quality, reliability)
• Maintain and improve supplier relationships, ensuring adherence to company terms
• Follow up on orders to ensure on-time delivery
• Work with relevant authorities to ensure products meet South African consumer standards, including import compliance
• Ensure all products are properly tested prior to market launch
• Conduct store visits, engaging with managers, staff and customers to understand needs and opportunities
• Coordinate product training for store teams to support sell-through
• Monitor stock levels and customer profiles to inform buying decisions

Requirements

• Grade 12, with a Diploma or Degree in Retail or a relevant field
• Minimum of 2 years experience as a retail Buyer
• Proven experience in: Product development
• Working with international brands and their merchandise/marketing teams
• Solid understanding of the product lifecycle
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to calculate margins, pricing and key buying metrics quickly and accurately

Qualifications

• None mentioned

Salary & Benefits

• Not specified