Assistant Retail Buyer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 340,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Growth opportunities within the buying

Employee discounts on company products

Exposure to core retail product策略

Collaborative work environment in Port

Port Elizabeth market exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking an ambitious Assistant Retail Buyer to join its fashion-forward team. You will work closely with the Senior Buyer to shape the product assortment and sourcing strategy, using trend insights and data to guide buying decisions.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree and 1–3 years in retail buying, plus strong Excel and negotiation skills, with collaboration across marketing and visual merchandising to deliver compelling product launches.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion Merchandising or related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in retail buying, merchandising, or related role.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of the Port Elizabeth retail market is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Senior Buyer with planning, selection and purchasing of merchandise across product categories.
• Conduct market research and analyze sales data to identify trends and customer preferences.
• Source new suppliers and build relationships with existing vendors.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms and delivery schedules with suppliers.
• Manage the product lifecycle from initial selection to in-store presentation.
• Monitor inventory levels and advise on replenishment or markdown strategies.
• Prepare buying reports and present findings to the buying team and management.
• Collaborate with marketing and visual merchandising for cohesive product launches.
• Attend trade shows and supplier meetings to stay informed about market developments.
• Process purchase orders and related admin for Port Elizabeth operations.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Excel proficiency

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion Merchandising

Tools

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking retail company, is seeking an ambitious Assistant Retail Buyer to join their talented team in Port Elizabeth . This role offers an exceptional opportunity for an individual with a passion for fashion, a keen eye for trends, and strong analytical skills to contribute to the product selection and purchasing strategy. You will work closely with the Senior Buyer to identify market opportunities, source new suppliers, negotiate terms, and manage the product lifecycle. This position is crucial in ensuring our client offers a relevant and appealing product assortment to its customers in the Eastern Cape region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Senior Buyer in the planning, selection, and purchasing of merchandise across various product categories.
• Conduct market research and analyze sales data to identify emerging trends and customer preferences.
• Source new suppliers and build strong relationships with existing vendors.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers.
• Manage the product lifecycle, from initial selection to in-store presentation.
• Monitor inventory levels and make recommendations for replenishment or markdown strategies.
• Prepare buying reports and present findings to the buying team and management.
• Collaborate with marketing and visual merchandising teams to ensure cohesive product launches.
• Attend trade shows and industry events to stay informed about market developments.
• Process purchase orders and manage related administrative tasks for the Port Elizabeth operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in retail buying, merchandising, or a related role.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret sales data.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• A keen sense of style and a passion for the retail industry.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for supplier meetings and trade shows.
• Familiarity with the retail market in Port Elizabeth is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the buying department.
• Employee discounts on company products.
• Exposure to the core of retail product strategy.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment in Port Elizabeth .
• Contribute to shaping the product offerings of a respected retail brand.