Head Of Buying Durban Salary R1.6M To R1.8M R1.6 Million - R1.8 Million Per Annum

Saflin Consulting (Pty) Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1 600 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head of Buying to drive the success of its retail business in Durban. This pivotal role involves strategic procurement, vendor management, and collaboration with internal teams to optimize product offerings and inventory levels. With a focus on market trends and consumer preferences, you will lead a dynamic team, negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, and analyze sales data to enhance profitability. If you have a strong background in retail buying and a passion for leadership, this opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a thriving environment.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in retail buying, with a minimum of 3 years in leadership.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale purchasing operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic buying plans aligned with company objectives.
• Lead a team of buyers, providing guidance and fostering excellence.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Negotiation Skills

Leadership

Communication Skills

Market Research

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

MBA

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Head of Buying

As the Head of Buying, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the product offerings and driving the success of our retail business.

Based in Durban, you will oversee the strategic procurement process, manage vendor relationships, and collaborate closely with internal teams to optimize product assortments, pricing, and inventory levels.

Salary: R1.6 million - R1.8 million per annum

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Develop and implement strategic buying plans aligned with company objectives and market trends.
2. Lead a team of buyers and category managers, providing guidance and fostering a culture of excellence.
3. Conduct thorough market research to identify emerging trends, consumer preferences, and competitive insights.
4. Negotiate favorable terms and agreements with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and optimal product quality.
5. Analyze sales data, forecast demand, and adjust purchasing strategies to maximize profitability and minimize excess inventory.
6. Collaborate cross-functionally with merchandising, marketing, and finance teams to execute integrated business strategies.
7. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly report on buying performance, identifying areas for improvement and driving actionable insights.
8. Stay abreast of industry developments, regulatory changes, and global market dynamics affecting the retail sector.

Desired Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in retail buying, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale purchasing operations and driving business growth.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make data-driven decisions.
• Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Strategic mindset with a keen eye for identifying market opportunities and optimizing product assortments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, ERP systems, and other relevant software applications.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, including team management, coaching, and performance evaluation.