Fabric Sourcing and Procurement Specialist - Clothing

Sandi Crowther Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

Sandi Crowther Recruitment is seeking a Fabric Sourcing Specialist based in Durban to identify and secure fabrics from international suppliers. You will negotiate pricing, manage samples and ensure quality and timely deliveries for multiple textile projects.

The role requires 3+ years in fabric sourcing, strong negotiation and Excel skills, and the ability to travel internationally. An understanding of fabrics and the clothing industry is essential, with a proactive, independent work style.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ relevant experience within 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 Excel / MS Office skills
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Able to travel internationally

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

Skills

Excel / MS Office

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Independent work

Education

Matric

Fashion/Textiles qualification (advantageous)

Job description

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 timesExcellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail
• Strong Excel / MS Office skills
• 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.