Overview

An exciting opportunity has become available at the Support office within the Merchandise department for a Footwear Buyer in Men’s and Ladies.

The successful candidate must be proactive, assertive and a confident go-getter, who can assist the team in adding strategic value to the brand by being responsible for the procurement and building of the footwear range, in accordance with company strategies.

Our ideal candidate will be self-motivated, passionate about performance and will have the high energy level required for this fast-paced, exciting and dynamic retail environment.

Skills and Knowledge required:

A Grade 12 certificate or equivalent is an essential requirement.
A minimum of 3 years proven retail experience in footwear buying/procurement is
Specialist knowledge, together with a successful track record in the procurement of footwear.
A relevant qualification would be a definite advantage.
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of footwear construction and materials is an important requirement.
A working knowledge of the latest Microsoft packages (Word & Excel) is required.
Key areas of responsibilities:

To achieve and exceed the Company’s inflow margin and GP Rands as signed off at the seasonal business plan meetings.
To influence, drive and execute the seasonal product and purchasing strategy.
To be responsible for researching, understanding and executing the relevant seasonal trends in line with the target market.
To build a competitive product range according to the purchasing strategy.
To source & select the correct supplier for the appropriate product category and manage them according to the Company policies and procedures.
To ensure the timeous execution of procurement administration to meet the target dates in the critical path of the supply chain.
To source and procure products within the agreed quality specifications & standards.
To ensure compliance with agreed quality specifications & standards.
To develop and influence cross-functional partnerships with all specified key relationships.
Inherent job requirements:

Be passionate about keeping up to date with the latest trends, styles and colors in clothing.
Must be able to travel internationally.
Is able to build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers.
Is innovative, shows initiative and has a strong trader mentality.
Have strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Have excellent relationship-building and networking skills.
Is able to communicate effectively at all levels both within, as well as outside the company.
Is a strong negotiator and is able to secure win-win agreements with others.
Is able to be assertive and is focused on achieving deadlines.
Is able to remain flexible, function under pressure and maintain a positive attitude and work performance in a variety of circumstances.
Have excellent time management, organizing skills, administrative skills and presentation skills.
Has a strong sense of integrity, and is honest and ethical in everything they do.
Applicants will need to demonstrate their consistent record of determination and drive, to demonstrate their interpersonal and communication skills at all levels in the Company, and a value system that embraces the Company’s values, vision, and strategy.

If you meet the necessary criteria and are eager to join this motivated team, please submit your CV in Word Format together with a profile photo.

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