
Apparel Buyer
- Bellville, Cape Town
- Permanent
- Full-time
Qualifications
- A relevant degree / qualification in Fashion/Textile Design/Clothing Production/Product Development/Merchandising, or a related field
- Knowledge of the retail merchandise cycle with regards to Buying, Planning, Logistics and Stores
- Knowledge of specific sports branded buying strategies
- Understanding of retail business systems and related processes
- A comprehensive knowledge/understanding of SA’s retail clothing market, customers and competitors
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organisation
- Collaboration with planning to manage OTB effectively
- Strategic thinking and analytical abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt quickly to changing priorities and market conditions
- A commercial mindset to develop innovative and impactful product strategies
- Continuously seeking opportunities for innovation and differentiation, to maintain a competitive edge
- The ability to be resilient, have tenacity and maintain high levels of drive and initiative under pressure
- Proven 3 years buying experience in sports/atheisure/casual apparel
- Possesses a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of fabrics and garment construction
- Thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys the challenge of exceeding expectations
- Strong negotiator and relationship builder, securing win-win deals with suppliers
- Is a team player with strong communication and collaboration skills
- Stays organized, manages time effectively, and meets deadlines under pressure
- Proficiency in the latest G-Suite (Docs/Sheets/Slides) and Microsoft packages is an essential requirement
- Working knowledge of a PLM system similar to Airtable advantageous.
- International and local travel required
- Range building based on Good/Better/Best price tiering principles, as well as balancing core, seasonal and trend product lifecycles
- In this fast-paced role, you'll be responsible for applying brand relevant trends to your department and categories. Identifying must-have products, and building a collection that resonates with our target market.
- Partnering with top suppliers to find high-quality products within budget and on time.
- Delivering on aggressive targets and maximizing margins.
- 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.