Merchandise Manager - Rochester, Home.Tech.Sleep,Boardmans and House & Home (non RSA) at Pepkor Lifestyle

Job Description

• Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for an experienced and commercially driven Merchandise Manager to lead our Buying teams and oversee the end-to-end merchandise value chain.
• The successful candidate will be responsible for driving profitable sales, optimizing merchandise performance, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring exceptional customer outcomes while leading a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Stores Accountability: Oversee the merchandise strategy and assume full accountability for the following stores: Rochester, Home.Tech.Sleep,Boardmans and House & Home (non RSA).
• Lead and manage the Buying teams to deliver business objectives.
• Drive sales, gross profit, and merchandise performance across all categories.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier partnerships and negotiate strategic trading agreements.
• Oversee product ranging, promotional planning, and marketing initiatives.
• Monitor merchandise performance, inventory health, and key business metrics.
• Ensure customer-centric decision-making across all merchandise activities.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team while driving succession planning and employee engagement.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, processes, and governance standards.

Minimum Requirements

• Matric with a Degree or Diploma in Business Management, Procurement, or a related field.
• 5+ years’ buying and procurement experience within the Lounge, Case Goods, and Patio Furniture.
• 3+ years’ merchandise management experience, including direct people management.
• Proven track record in supplier management, contract negotiation, and range planning.
• Proficiency in SAP and Google Workspace/Microsoft Suite.

Key Competencies

• Commercial & Financial Acumen: Entrepreneurial thinking with strong analytical and financial skills to drive strategy and profitability.
• Negotiation & Influence: Outstanding capability in vendor management, contract negotiation, and stakeholder influence.
• Leadership & People Management: Proven ability to manage direct reports, communicate vision, and present effectively to business stakeholders.
• Planning & Execution: Strong organisational skills with a strategic approach to merchandise and category management.

Closing Date 08 August 2026