Buyer Intern (6-Months) at Ares Holdings

The position watches consumer patterns, such as seasonal purchasing and presents their findings to the planning and management teams. Additionally, the Junior Buyer offers insight on ways to alter merchandise assortments in order to increase revenue and minimise loss. This is done by analysing sales data (macro & micro consumer trends and spending), frequent reporting cadence, planning tools management and highlighting inventory areas which need addressing.               

Analyst

• Monitor sales data, by price, category, trend, geography, consumer, etc., post season, in season and pre-season
• Identify and understand purchasing trends and make recommendations, for example “X% of consumers in Sandton are shopping for kids, making up X% of total business. Propose to increase Kids mix and inventory to X level”
• Monitoring the timing and scope of seasonal changes
• Make recommendations and assist with merchandising
• Develop supply strategies that will minimize stock outs while maximising inventory turns
• Develop and continuously evaluate all reports from purchase orders to sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans
• Communicating with Stores where necessary
• Monitoring in season trade and react accordingly
• Set up seasonal line lists per store
• Analyse Market Place sales and assist in ensuring the right product is available at the right time.

Inventory Management

• Understand and maintain desired inventory levels, inventory turns, OTB and assortments.
• Ensure plans are in place to meet consumer trends, marketing launches, promotional activation, etc.
• Oversee shipping, receiving and warehousing of merchandise
• Develop and maintain an integrated planning process that deals with customer demand, upselling opportunities in high demand end uses, EOL & stock to management in accordance with budgeted guidance (OTB), to consume against future seasons.
• Develop and maintain inventory reporting (achievement to target, margins, inventory health, shipping schedule vs SAP, etc.)
• Placing Purchase Orders (pre & in season)
• Order Tracking and reporting
• GTM, SKU, Pricing and Order form setup
• Develop and maintain an accurate ATS (Available to Sell) to be refreshed and published on a frequent cadence
• Assist with pricing structure for staff purchases and sample sales when necessary

Reporting

• Shipping schedule
• Inbound Containers
• Location Reviews
• Inventory Tracker Tool
• Retail Top Seller
• Weekly Sales
• Return Managements
• ATS
• Any reporting pack agreed to with management or to fulfil your role's responsibilities

General

• Maintaining a professional image whilst in the office or travelling
• Assist with any adhoc duties

Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification
• 1-2 years’ experience in a similar role
• Stores experience will be an advantage
• A strong understanding of lifestyle footwear brands and the market opportunities within the retail, wholesale and Ecommerce sector
• Strong administration skills
• Strong merchant skills
• Highly numerate and able to deal with large volumes of data
• Organized and deadline driven with exceptional attention to detail
• Sound understanding of supplier profiles
• Must have good problem-solving skills
• Understanding of supply chain processes and concepts
• Ability to prioritize tasks according to importance in a fast-paced environment
• Multi-tasking capability without compromising on quality
• Dependable, punctual and able to work flexible working hours
• Valid Driver's licence and own transport