Fabric Sourcing and Procurement Specialist - Clothing

Lee-Ann Cullen; Durban; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Fort Hare in Durban is seeking a Fabric Sourcing and Procurement Specialist to join its clothing/textiles team. You will source fabrics internationally and manage supplier relationships, imports, and shipments to ensure timely delivery and quality.

The role requires at least 3 years in fabric sourcing or textile procurement, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ relevant experience in fabric sourcing or textile procurement.
• Proven experience sourcing fabrics from international suppliers.
• Experience with imports, shipping and international purchasing.
• Strong communication, negotiation and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Source and secure suitable fabrics internationally
• Identify new suppliers and sourcing opportunities
• Negotiate with overseas suppliers and obtain competitive pricing
• Manage fabric samples, specifications, quality and availability
• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders and customs agents
• Monitor orders, lead times and deliveries
• Stay updated on fabric trends and industry developments
• Travel internationally when required to visit mills and exhibitions
• Assist with cost-saving opportunities and fabric mix optimization

Skills

Fabric sourcing

Fabric buying

Textile procurement

Supplier negotiation

Import logistics

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

Matric

Textiles/Procurement qualification

Job description

Fabric Sourcing and Procurement Specialist - Clothing

28 Sep 2026 - 28 Oct 2026

DUR003702

Clothing / Textiles

Durban. Exciting opportunity exists for a Fabric Sourcing and Procurement Specialist to join a well-established company in the clothing / textile industry. The successful candidate must have at least 3 years’ relevant experience in fabric sourcing, fabric buying or textile procurement, with proven experience sourcing fabrics from international suppliers and managing imports and shipments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Source and secure suitable fabrics internationally
• Identify new suppliers and sourcing opportunities
• Liaise and negotiate directly with overseas suppliers
• Obtain and negotiate competitive pricing
• Manage fabric samples, specifications, quality and availability
• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders and clearing agents regarding imports and shipments
• Monitor orders, lead times and deliveries
• Keep up to date with fabric, fashion and industry trends
• Identify alternative fabrics and cost-saving opportunities
• Travel internationally when required to visit suppliers, mills and exhibitions

Requirements:

• Matric
• Minimum 3 years’ relevant experience within the clothing / textile industry, specifically fabric sourcing, fabric buying or textile procurement
• Proven experience sourcing fabrics from international / overseas suppliers
• Experience with imports, shipping and international purchasing is essential
• Strong understanding of fabric types, quality, pricing and specifications
• Experience negotiating with suppliers on pricing, quantities and lead times
• Excellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Commercially minded and price conscious
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Easy-going team player with a strong understanding of deadlines
• Good understanding of fabrics and the clothing industry

Ability to interpret trends and identify suitable fabric opportunities

Able to travel internationally

A qualification in Fashion Design, Clothing Production, Clothing Management, Textiles, Procurement or a related field would be advantageous, but is not essential.