Buying Manager

Browns Jewellers; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A jewelry manufacturing firm in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Buyer to manage the procurement of jewelry components and finished goods. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in a buying role, strong negotiation skills, and knowledge of gemological standards. This position requires excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage vendor relationships effectively, ensuring the sourcing of high-quality materials in line with ethical practices.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in a buying role.
• Familiarity with gemological standards (e.g., GIA certifications, 4Cs of diamonds).
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure essential jewelry components.
• Manage vendor relationships ensuring reliability and ethical sourcing.
• Negotiate pricing and lead times to maintain margin targets.
• Work closely with product development and production teams.

Skills

Vendor relationship management

Negotiation skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Knowledge of gemological standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or related field

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 jewellery 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.
• 8+ years of experience in a buying role.
• Familiarity with gemological standards (e.g., GIA certifications, 4Cs of diamonds).
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is a strong advantage.