Senior Buyer

Shoprite Group Of Companies; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in Cape Town seeks a Senior Buyer to execute the Wine buying strategy. The role involves collaboration with suppliers, directing buying processes, and optimizing inventory management. Ideal candidates should have a degree in a related field and at least 4 years of experience in purchasing, with proven negotiation skills. This position offers an opportunity to impact profitability and product selection significantly, working in a dynamic retail environment.

Qualifications

• 4 years' experience in a buying role within a large retail organisation.
• Proven experience with sourcing and supplier management.
• Comprehensive understanding of product cost and selling prices.

Responsibilities

• Execute the Wine portfolio buying strategy.
• Collaborate with category management and suppliers.
• Track and report category performance against KPIs.

Skills

Strong knowledge of commercial and financial trade-offs in category sales

Understanding of the retail value chain and profitability drivers

Strong proficiency in MS Office with advanced Excel skills

Education

Degree or Diploma in Business, Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field

Job description

Job title : Senior Buyer

Job Location :

Western Cape, Cape TownDeadline : December 12, Quick Recommended LinksJobs by Location

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Purpose of the Job

The purpose of the Senior Buyer role is to execute the Wine portfolio buying strategy of the Shoprite Group through the planning, selection and procurement of a range of products within the category that results in the achievement of profitability goals and targets.

The Senior Buyer directs all aspects of the buying process for the category, creating a compelling assortment that meets financial targets and supports brand objectives.

The role further ensures sales growth and increase in gross margins by considering market trends and customer demand in terms of price, quality and availability when making purchasing decisions.

The Senior Buyer works collaboratively with suppliers, category, marketing and store operations teams to execute the Wine buying strategy, ensuring a consistent customer experience and aligned execution.

Product Ranging and Pricing

Collaborate with category management to develop and execute category strategies.

Analyse market trends and competitor pricing to determine tactical pricing approaches.

Forecast sales and build buying plans that achieve margin and sales goals while maintaining price competitiveness.

Ensure comprehensive category coverage through effective range rationalization aligned to brand strategy.

Develop merchandise assortments and range plans with negotiated cost prices to maximize gross profit.

Execute planograms, pricing rules, and promotional strategies.

Present product and merchandise analysis at assortment and business review meetings.

Sourcing, Negotiations and Inventory Management

Formulate short- to mid-term sourcing strategies aligned with category objectives.

Secure stock at optimal times and prices and mitigate supplier risks.

Negotiate favourable trading terms, promotional spend, exclusives, and return-to-vendor agreements.

Maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure performance and first-to-market opportunities.

Manage purchase orders, monitor delivery timelines, and resolve discrepancies.

Lead supplier business reviews and ensure compliance with contracts and service level agreements.

Category Performance and Reporting

Track and report category performance against KPIs, budgets, and forecasts.

Generate monthly reports for leadership and review financial indicators.

Analyse competitive trends to identify growth opportunities.

Conduct store visits to assess merchandise mix and translate insights into actionable plans.

Relationship Management

Collaborate with Category Specialists, suppliers, and internal teams to optimize assortment, pricing, and promotions.

Build strong partnerships with vendors to ensure timely delivery, cooperative marketing, and promotional execution.

Marketing, Promotions and Customer Insights

Plan and execute promotional events, ensuring accuracy in pricing and marketing materials.

Work with marketing and space planning teams to maximise in-store visibility.

Use market intelligence and consumer trend analysis to inform product introductions and promotional strategies.

People Management and Coaching

Allocate work, set priorities, and monitor team performance.

Coach and mentor team members and Trainee Buyers to embed sound buying principles and enhance capability.

Qualifications

Degree or Diploma in Business, Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field – (essential)

4 years' experience in a buying role, with demonstrable experience directing all aspects of the buying process for a product category in a large retail organisation – (essential).

Experience

Proven experience with sourcing and supplier management along with complex vendor / supplier negotiations – (essential).

Solid understanding of supply chain concepts, processes and systems – (essential).

Comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing a product's cost and selling prices – (essential).

Knowledge and Skills

Strong knowledge of commercial and financial trade-offs in category sales – (essential).

Understanding of the retail value chain and profitability drivers – (essential).

Strong proficiency in MS Office with advanced Excel skills – (essential).

Closing Date

/ 12 / 12