The Buyer is responsible for driving category performance and profitability through strategic sourcing, assortment planning, and vendor management. This role involves analyzing market trends, optimizing product assortment, and leading buying strategies to ensure competitiveness, margin growth, and strong customer appeal. The Buyer works cross-functionally to execute merchandising, promotional, and pricing strategies aligned with business objectives.
Job Description:
Own and manage overall category performance, including sales, margin, inventory, and product mix.
Develop and execute category buying strategies to achieve revenue and profitability targets.
Plan, select, and purchase assortments based on demand forecasting, pricing strategy, and business goals.
Continuously evaluate and optimize product assortment, introducing new products while phasing out underperforming items.
Conduct market analysis to identify trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences.
Develop and implement merchandising plans, including store layouts, product placement, and assortment segmentation.
Monitor sales performance, inventory levels, and replenishment to ensure optimal stock availability and turnover.
Lead vendor sourcing, evaluation, and selection to build a strong and competitive supplier base.
Negotiate commercial terms, pricing, rebates, and contracts to maximize value and margins.
Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key suppliers and partners.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Stores, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, Regional teams) to execute promotional campaigns, pricing strategies, and product launches.
Prepare, manage, and track purchasing budgets and forecasts.
Provide insights and recommendations through data analysis and reporting.
Participate in trade exhibitions, fairs, and supplier meetings to identify new opportunities.
Guide and support junior team members in daily buying activities and category management.
Job requirements:
Diploma or Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Retail Management, or related discipline.
3-5 years of retail buying or merchandising experience (category management experience preferred).
Strong analytical and commercial acumen with the ability to translate data into actionable strategies.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with inventory management / ERP systems.
Proven negotiation skills with experience managing supplier contracts and commercial terms.
Strong understanding of retail operations, inventory planning, and merchandising principles.
Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and make data-driven decisions.
Self-driven, results-oriented, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.