Buyer

Browns Jewellers; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading jewelry company in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Buyer to manage the procurement of core materials for their manufacturing and retail operations. This role involves sourcing high-quality gemstones, negotiating with suppliers, and ensuring product quality and timely delivery. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s degree and 2–5 years of experience in the jewelry industry. Competitive compensation and opportunities for professional growth are offered.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience in a buying role within the jewelry industry.
• Familiarity with gemological standards (e.g., GIA certifications).
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure essential jewelry components like diamonds and metals.
• Manage vendor relationships ensuring reliability and quality standards.
• Negotiate pricing and payment terms to maintain margin targets.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Attention to detail

Knowledge of gemstones

Cost analysis skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field

Tools

Excel

Google Sheets

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Buyer to manage the procurement of core materials and finished goods for our jewelry manufacturing and retail operations. This role is critical to sourcing high-quality diamonds, precious stones, findings, metals, and finished jewelry products from trusted suppliers worldwide. You will be responsible for ensuring product quality, competitive pricing, and timely delivery to support both production and retail merchandising plans. We’re looking for someone with a positive attitude, who enjoys solving problems, takes initiative, and is committed to growing both their skills and their professional brand in the jewelry industry.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure essential jewelry components, including: loose diamonds and gemstones (precious and semi-precious), metal findings (clasps, settings, chains), mounts, semi-finished goods, and finished jewelry products.
• Manage vendor relationships, from luxury suppliers to raw materials traders, ensuring reliability, ethical sourcing, and quality standards.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and lead times to maintain margin targets while ensuring supply stability.
• Work closely with product development, design, and production teams to support seasonal and core range needs.
• Partner with merchandising planners to align inventory levels with sales forecasts and production timelines.
• Stay informed about commodity pricing trends (e.g., gold, diamonds) and their impact on cost planning.
• Monitor quality assurance standards for incoming components and manage any supplier non-compliance issues.
• Maintain accurate procurement records, purchase orders, and supply chain documentation.
• Attend trade fairs, supplier meetings, and industry events to source new materials and innovations.
• Ensure alignment with ethical sourcing, conflict-free diamond practices, and sustainability initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Trade, or related field.
• 2–5 years of experience in a buying role within the jewelry, luxury goods, or accessories industries.
• Familiarity with gemological standards (e.g., GIA certifications, 4Cs of diamonds).
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is a strong advantage.
• Strong knowledge of jewelry materials and component categories (gemstones, diamonds, precious metals).
• Experience working with domestic and international suppliers in jewelry or luxury goods.
• Excellent negotiation and cost analysis skills. High level of attention to detail and product quality standards. Comfortable working with data, inventory systems, and Excel/Google Sheets.