Assistant Retail Buyer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training program

Employee discount on store merchandise

Pension contribution

Medical aid contribution

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Assistant Retail Buyer in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This entry-level role supports the Buying Department in selecting, negotiating, and purchasing products aligned with market trends and sales targets.

The successful candidate will work with buyers and vendors to ensure optimal assortment, pricing, and timely delivery. Ideal for candidates with a keen eye for detail, strong numerical aptitude, and a passion for retail.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Merchandising, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior buyers in researching market trends, competitor activity, and customer preferences to identify product opportunities.
• Support the product selection and assortment planning process for assigned categories.
• Help negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers and vendors.
• Process purchase orders and ensure accuracy of product details, quantities, and costs.
• Monitor inventory levels and sales performance of purchased products, providing regular reports to the buying team.
• Collaborate with marketing and merchandising teams to ensure product launches and promotions are effectively supported.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Excel data analysis

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Admin/Marketing/Merchandising

Tools

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent name in the retail industry, is looking for a motivated and analytical Assistant Retail Buyer to join their vibrant team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is instrumental in supporting the Buying Department by assisting in the selection, negotiation, and purchasing of products that align with market trends and company sales targets.

The successful candidate will work closely with buyers and vendors to ensure optimal product assortment, competitive pricing, and timely delivery. This is an excellent entry-level buying position for an individual with a keen eye for detail, a passion for the retail sector, and strong numerical aptitude.

You will gain invaluable experience in trend forecasting, product lifecycle management, and strategic sourcing within a dynamic commercial environment.

Be part of a company that is committed to delivering quality merchandise and exceptional value to its customers across Durban and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist senior buyers in researching market trends, competitor activity, and customer preferences to identify product opportunities.
• Support the product selection and assortment planning process for assigned categories.
• Help negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers and vendors.
• Process purchase orders and ensure accuracy of product details, quantities, and costs.
• Monitor inventory levels and sales performance of purchased products, providing regular reports to the buying team.
• Liaise with suppliers to resolve any issues related to orders, deliveries, or product quality.
• Assist in the analysis of sales data to inform future buying decisions and optimize stock levels.
• Maintain product information databases and ensure all records are accurate and up-to-date.
• Collaborate with marketing and merchandising teams to ensure product launches and promotions are effectively supported.
• Participate in trade shows and vendor meetings as required to stay informed about new products and industry developments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Merchandising, or a related field.
• Previous internship or entry-level experience in retail buying, merchandising, or a related analytical role is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends.
• Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with vendors and internal teams.
• A genuine interest in the retail industry and consumer products.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Familiarity with retail math concepts is an advantage.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Starting annual salary of ZAR, with opportunities for salary reviews based on performance.
• Comprehensive training program focused on buying and merchandising principles.
• Exposure to a wide range of retail products and supply chain processes.
• Opportunity to learn from experienced buyers and contribute to key purchasing decisions.
• Company pension scheme and medical aid contribution.
• Generous employee discount on store merchandise.
• A positive and collaborative work environment in our Durban office.
• Career progression pathways within the buying department.
• Team social events and professional networking opportunities.