Fresh Produce Sourcing Lead

Shoprite Group of Companies; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Shoprite Group of Companies in South Africa seeks a category buyer with a focus on fruit and vegetables. You will lead seasonal growing programs, negotiate prices to protect profitability, and drive growth across your category while ensuring stock availability and quality.

You will monitor performance, engage suppliers, and ensure adherence to trading policies, with responsibilities spanning sales targets and food-safety standards at producer level.

Qualifications

• Experience in buying and trading within a retail supply chain.
• Knowledge of fruit and/or vegetables is essential.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven decision making.
• Excellent communication across supplier levels.
• Ability to manage a distribution centre environment is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead seasonal growing programs and evaluate grower performance.
• Negotiate product purchase prices to sustain profitability.
• Achieve sales, gross profit and stock targets within your category.
• Maintain optimal stock levels, minimize shortages and waste.
• Ensure product quality and food safety compliance at producer level.
• Conduct farm, market and competitor visits to spot growth opportunities.
• Drive product development and timely launches with promotions.
• Analyze category performance and supplier data to identify opportunities.
• Adhere to company buying and trading policies.
• Support general management duties as needed.

Job description

Shoprite Group of Companies in South Africa seeks a category buyer with a focus on fruit and vegetables. You will lead seasonal growing programs, negotiate prices to protect profitability, and drive growth across your category while ensuring stock availability and quality.

You will monitor performance, engage suppliers, and ensure adherence to trading policies, with responsibilities spanning sales targets and food-safety standards at producer level.