Job Purpose:

To manage the front shop portfolio in relation to product selection, planning, procurement, marketing and managing supplier relationships so that the company's front shop strategy is achieved

Job Objectives:
• To develop, implement & monitor operational plans to achieve department strategic objectives
• To build effective relationships with suppliers and customers on new initiatives and other pertinent issues on stock holding, so as to respond appropriately to customer needs
• To manage the availability, infill and the front shop margin
To manage slow moving lines by either returning them back to suppliers, marking them down or donating for CSI projects
• To list required new lines for customers, ensuring they are in line with stockholding budgets so as to increase product differentiation and increase market share
• To analyse the market, understand forthcoming customer initiatives and monitor industry trends, align forecasts to industry data, analyse sales figures and forecast future sales volumes to maximize profits
• To compile and produce reports to ensure visibility of the correct information, stock, margin, availability, infill in order to take corrective action to maintain and or improve profitability
• To sell advertising/marketing elements to key manufacturers to ensure that target is met on a monthly basis. To ensure ROI on events, conferences and all marketing and advertising initiatives that the organisation undertakes
• To manage the planning of sales promotions, analyse promotions and present the promotions post mortem reports to suppliers
• To manage, lead, develop, train, review and retain the Front shop & Marketing team
Experience and Education:
• Matric
• Relevant tertiary education (diploma or degree)
• 5 years buying experience in the Pharmaceutical/FMCG industry
• 2 to 3 years marketing experience
• 2 years’ experience on margin management and price file management
• 5 years negotiation experience
Job Knowledge:
• Planning process (stock flow, stock availability, lead times, infill rates)
• Distribution process
• Procurement
• Supply chain
• Industry Stakeholders
• Sales & Margin Management
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Planning Tools (Just Enough - Advantage)
• Selling & Advertising
• Marketing campaigns
Job Related Skills:
• Computer literacy (advanced Excel, PowerPoint)
• Analytical thinking
• Planning skills
• Networking skills
• Decision making skills
• Communication skills
• Identifying opportunities
• Commercial Thinking
• Presentation skills
• Report writing

Essential competencies:
• Planning and Organising
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking
• Persuading and Influencing
• Analysing
• Deciding and Initiating Action
• Leading and Supervising
• Creating and Innovating
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations