Midrand: Category Buyer – Midrand posted by Dis-Chem Pharmacies

Dis-Chem Pharmacies Head Office in Midrand has an opportunity available for a Category Buyer to join the procurement team. The main purpose of this role will be to manage suppliers, trading terms, market analysis, product selection/ buying, planning, stock management, driving turnover and profit. Minimum Requirements Essential: Grade 12 / Matric with Mathematics and Accounting Minimum of 3 years Category Buying experience Degree or Diploma in Finance/Retail Management or any similar qualification SAP BI, Qlikview experience Computer skills (Excel, Word, Powerpoint) Job Specification Implement strategies to improve profitability of the category. Analyse consumer buying patterns to predict future trends in order to choose most profitable product ranges. Manage plans to ensure optimal stock levels for the business at all times. Develop and adhere to category plan that includes category sales, profit, market shares, second stock returns, ROCE. Ensure a detailed marketing plan is formulated and that it`s in line with the overall company strategy. Identify and develop various Dis-Chem category pricing and promotion strategies to ensure customer needs are met while remaining competitive in the market. Evaluate product quality by using customer feedback as a measuring tool. Report on category plans on a monthly basis. Develop a yearly category operating strategy and ensure it is in line with the Dis-Chem strategic category objective. Compile reports on relevant products and their sales, quality and feedback. Maintain relationships with existing suppliers while sourcing new suppliers for future products. Negotiating prices and delivery contracts with suppliers. Review supplier contracts and ensure they are valid, in line with industry standards and industry good practice. Competencies Essential: Knowledge of Industry standards, relevant product laws and regulations, Retail and Buying Knowledge and understanding of market trends and competitor analysis, supplier negotiations, trading terms, financial planning Brand understanding English Read, write and speak well Analytical problem solving skills Negotiation and persuasion skills Good communication skills Need to have an understanding of the financial implications that goes with the tasks involved Be able to achieve budget inventory levels Ability to work under pressure Deadline driven Time management Special conditions of employment: South African citizen MIE, clear criminal and credit Drivers license and/or own reliable transport Remuneration and benefits: Market related salary Medical aid Provident fund Staff account ONLY SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED. IF YOU HAVEN`T BEEN CONTACTED WITHIN TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CLOSING DATE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION AS UNSUCCESSFUL. Chem Pharmacies is an equal opportunity employer. Dis-Chems approved Employment Equity Plan and targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process aligned to Dis-Chems Employment Equity & Transformation Strategy. Dis-Chem actively supports the recruitment of People with Disabilities.