Head of Buying

Who you are:

You are an experienced and commercially-minded Head of Buying / Senior Merchandise Manager that will lead our homeware & kitchen buying function in playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of our brand. You thrive on formulating strategies to differentiate our company's product from those of our competitors across brands and private label and connect strongly with all stakeholders across the merchandise cycle/process.

What your role looks like:

As Head of Buying, you will lead the merchandising function by providing operational oversight and setting appropriate direction for preparing merchandising calendars, determining optimal product mix and researching materials that encourage initial or repeat purchases. Leading a dynamic team, you’ll be responsible for driving product performance, identifying new opportunities, and ensuring our products continue to excite and delight customers.

What experience & skills you need for the role:

1. University degree (NQF 8 equivalent in commerce or related field)
2. 8-10 years of experience with 5+ years in a senior / management role
3. Extensive buying experience in the homeware or lifestyle sector
4. Strong commercial acumen with a proven track record of delivering sales/business growth and profitability
5. Excellent leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams
6. A deep understanding of trends, consumer behaviour, and the retail landscape
7. Strategic & Analytical thinker with outstanding negotiation and supplier relationship management skills
8. Passionate about product and brand with a keen eye for design and quality

Who are we?

We’re Yuppiechef, and see ourselves as helping people find moments of joy at home. We’re here to offer outstanding and memorable service while selling things that our customers love using. We’re foodies and home lovers, aesthetes and early adopters, and we’re passionate learners more than we’re experts. We have a loved online store and 21 beautiful physical stores across SA, and we’re a proud member of the dynamic Mr Price Group.

Our head office in Westlake, Cape Town, has a view of the mountains, a beautiful Rancilio coffee machine, and plenty of books to borrow. It’s filled with people who value excellence, and who like spending time with one another over coffee and lunches. We’re always looking for new people to teach us new ways of doing things and help us make big things happen. We’d love to know if you might be one of them.

What’s the pay and benefits?

1. A collaborative, inclusive work environment
2. Total Cost to Company (CTC) package, including: Medical Aid contributions with Discovery, Life, Death & Disability cover, Retirement Annuity, Employee Assistance programme
3. Quarterly bonuses based on the company's performance after a year’s employment that scale with service
4. 17 days annual leave, increasing to 20 days with length of service
5. Half-day Fridays once a month
6. Flexi working arrangements depending on the role/responsibilities
7. Staff discount on all products from Yuppiechef and MRPG Retailers

Yuppiechef is a member of Mr Price Group Limited, an equal opportunity employer, and is committed to Employment Equity. By applying for this role, you agree with our terms and conditions.