Requirements:

Consumer Science degree or Tertiary Qualification (Bachelors, BCOM Supply
Chain, Buying, etc) (Required)
A minimum 10 years retail buying experience with major retail groups
Fashion-forward sensibility and ability to identify and capitalize on current trends
A good understanding of retail and product strategy
Proven negotiation skills and experience with supplier management
Sound People Management Skills
A clear understanding of the retail cycle and buying process
The Foshini Group, Edcon or similar training
Direct control over buying budget in excess of R300m
Deep understanding of planning systems, processes and forecasting
High attention to detail
Strong sales analysis skills
Experience in Indian and China sourcing
Ability to manage a departmental team in excess of 40 members
A proven track record in buying
Advanced level in MS Office package - with a specific focus on Excel
Responsibilities:

Guiding the team to effectively source merchandise in accordance with the approved product matrix that meets the target customers' needs in terms of price, quality and fashion ability. To deliver to the company’s agreed value proposition, a commercially viable range of merchandise at competitive prices; taking into consideration competitor activity
Achieve and exceed the company’s sales, inflow margin and GP Rands as signed off at the seasonal business plan meetings
Strategically influencing product and assortment/range planning, based on historical and forecasted information
Ensure that the appropriate product is selected and proposed to maximize sales in support of the agreed marketing and on-line visual merchandising plan
Give input into company strategy and formulate a clearly defined product plan in line with company strategy
Develop and implement a strategy to ensure that the correct supplier/s are sourced, selected and developed for the company and to manage them according to company’s policies and procedures (If correct policies and procedures are not in place these have to be documented and implemented)
Strong strategic negotiation skills
Develop and implement the agreed quality specifications and standards and to ensure compliance
Determine and manage the merchandise procurement process to ensure on time delivery with reference to the agreed company critical path
Critically analyze and evaluate data in order to make strategic business decisions, which affect turnover and business growth
Assess complex situations and implement workable solutions
Communicate effectively at all levels
Develop and influence cross-functional partnerships with all specified key relationships. Specifically, but not limited to:
Planning, with regards to stock management, including markdowns
IT, with regards to projects and reporting requirements
Finance, with regards to seasonal budgets etc
Marketing, with regards to building and promoting the brand
Manage structure and placements (people) within the team to maximize productivity and achieve company objectives
Develop and empower the Buying team by implementing sound people management practices, employee relations and a climate and culture of high performance
Cost-effectively manage expenses
Continuously review the buying function and its methodology and identify and implement improvements