Overview

I am looking for an experienced buyer in boys outerwear. This is considered a roaming position so you will be fulfilling a 7 month maternity contract and then your buying portfolio will possibly change, so flexibility is key.

Key Responsibilities:

To achieve and exceed the departmental inflow margin and GP Rands, as signed off at the seasonal business plan meetings.
Building a competitive range by researching, understanding, influencing & executing the relevant seasonal trends according to the purchasing strategy.
To select the correct supplier for the appropriate product category and manage them according to the Company policies and procedures with reference to the approved business plan.
To ensure the timeous execution of procurement administration; and to source & procure the correct products in accordance with the agreed quality specifications and standards.

We are looking for an individual who has:

knowledge of SA’s retail clothing market, customers and competitors
an understanding of the Clothing Retail Cycle, critical path & buying process
an understanding of relevant trends with a flair/eye for acceptable product for your target market
relevant product knowledge with regards to styling and contructions
an understanding of product components
a sound ability to analyse and work with numerical data
merchant skills & a sound trader mentality
presentation skills
a passion for keeping up to date with the latest trends, styles and colors in Boys
is competent in all the latest Microsoft applications

Is able to:

identify, distinguish, understand and assess colours, CAD approvals and strike offs engineer garments/products to achieve the desired value proposition
travel (approximately 4-6 overseas trips a year)
understand and interpret trends relevant to the product category
create a shared vision and to positively influence others
build ranges
communicate effectively at all levels both within, as well as outside the company
build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers
effectively negotiate and secure win-win agreements with others

Experience:

3-5 years proven retail experience in the procurement of Pre-Boys Merchandise
Pre-Boys buying experience preferable

Qualifications:

A Matric/Grade 12 certificate
A relevant qualification in Fashion, Textile Design /Clothing Production/ Product Development /Merchandising, or a related field would be an advantage

Questions:

What appeals to you about this position?
How many years’ experience as a buyer in Pre-Boys Outerwear do you have?
Please elaborate on your relevant experience.
What is your notice period?
If you fulfill the above requirements, and are looking for a new and exciting opportunity, please submit your CV together with answered questions.

If you have not been contacted within a two week period, please consider your application as unsuccessful.