RETAIL/FMCG Buyer

SUMMARY:
Our client is seeking a motivated and experienced Buyer to join their team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining strong supplier relationships, driving supplier sales growth, and ensuring the effective management of stock to meet company objectives. You will play a key role in managing supplier trade plans, negotiating prices, creating purchase orders, and ensuring timely deliveries to maximize profitability and operational efficiency.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Supplier Relationship Management:
  Establish and maintain a structured supplier call cycle, ensuring regular communication with suppliers to strengthen relationships and drive sales growth.
• Supplier Negotiations:
  Collaborate with suppliers to negotiate pricing, promotional deals, and stock availability based on market surveys and pricing data.
• Trade Plans & Promotions:
  Develop and manage supplier trade plans to meet sales objectives and margin expectations. Oversee the execution of promotional grids and creative initiatives to drive business growth.
• Purchase Order Management:
  Create and manage purchase orders in line with company policies and procedures. Ensure that orders are fulfilled on time, with deliveries tracked and managed effectively.
• Stock Management & Optimization:
  Ensure stock levels are maintained according to company targets, with a focus on managing negative stock, ageing stock, and overstock issues. Work closely with suppliers to manage stock turnover and optimize working capital by utilizing supplier payment terms.
• Supplier Claims & Issue Resolution:
  Address supplier claims and work to resolve any discrepancies related to orders, deliveries, or stock.
• Market Insights & Price Setting:
  Conduct market price surveys to remain competitive in the industry and set prices that align with market trends.
• In-Store Operations & Merchandising:
  Perform daily floor walks to ensure optimal store presentation, merchandising, ticketing, and receipt of deliveries. Check for supplier damages and maintain store standards.
• Collaboration & Sales Generation:
  Liaise with the internal sales team to ensure bought stock is effectively sold. Work closely with the team to drive sales and identify opportunities for category growth.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation:
  Continuously explore new ideas and opportunities to grow the business, identify product trends, and drive sales within the categories you manage.

• Proven experience as a Buyer, preferably within the retail or FMCG sector.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships.
• Excellent understanding of stock management and supplier performance metrics.
• Creative mindset with the ability to plan and execute effective promotional strategies.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

• Microsoft Suite: Excel (Intermediate), Word (Intermediate), PowerPoint (Intermediate), Outlook (Intermediate).
• Portal & SAP: Experience with inventory and procurement software is advantageous.

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for driving business growth and meeting objectives.