Buyer II: The Fix at TFG (The Foschini Group)

Job Description

• The Buyer II takes on a more advanced role in executing buying plans for assigned categories, negotiating prices, terms, and contracts with suppliers, and monitoring market trends to adjust buying strategies as needed. They lead supplier relationship management, resolve complex issues, and ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations. Additionally, they analyze sales data to adjust buying plans accordingly and collaborate with the buying team to ensure alignment with business goals.

Responsibilities

• Successfully source/develop/procure/select merchandise in line with company strategy and customer needs. 
• Work closely with the planner, through analysis of previous sales patterns, market trends and brand initiatives. 
• Formulate departmental strategies to maximize sales, and then timeously source and secure stock to implement defined strategies. 
• Negotiate effectively to deliver on and exceed business KPI’S.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with employees, suppliers, and key functions in the business. 
• Contribute to growth and profit through innovative and creative ideas.
• Availability to go on buying trips (local and international). 
• Understanding and delivering a clear product strategy aligned with specific store brand strategies.
• "Big Picture" thinking, whilst considering the specifics and detail. 
• Drive product efficiencies and key measures.    
• Solution Driven:  Assess complex situations and implement workable solutions. 
• Communicate and interact effectively and confidently at all levels. 
• Team player and be able to foster collaboration across buying and planning functions. 
• Identify and translate global trends (TikTok, streetwear, music, influencers) into The FIX product DNA
• Localise trends for the SA Gen Z customer 
• Build monthly trend stories and drops 
• Define key items + hero silhouettes per drop 

Qualifications

• Diploma, Graduate Degree, or Post Graduate Degree 
• Have experience as a Buyer (4+ years essential) 
• Integral understanding of the clothing retail Cycle and Buying Process 
• A good working knowledge of the current computer software packages (knowledge of Excel, Word & E-mail would be preferable). 
• Have a solid understanding of Quick Response model 

 Skills:

• Planning & Organising 
• Policy & Procedures
• Market Research and Analysis
• Supplier Management
• Requirements Analysis
• Global Sourcing Uncompromising negotiation skills , Good analytical skills 

Behaviours:

• Builds Networks - establishes and nurtures internal and external relationships in order to create robust, and mutually beneficial, partnerships
• Collaborates - effectively works with others to achieve shared goals
• Communicates Effectively - conveys information and communicates ideas in a clear, concise and impactful manner
• Customer Focus - understands, anticipates, and meets the needs and expectations of customers
• Ensures Accountability - takes accountability and ensures others are held to account on agreed upon performance targets
• Manages Complexity - interprets and simplifies complex and contradictory information when resolving organisational problems
• Persuades - effectively influences others by gaining support and commitment in the delivery of organisational goals and objectives
• Plans and Aligns - develops plans and prioritises initiatives that align to the organisational goals and objectives