An exciting opportunity has become available in our Poetry Department for a resilient, strategic, and innovative Buying Lead who can drive our buying function through successful sourcing, procurement, and trend analysis.

Our ideal candidate will have the ability to lead and influence the buying team while significantly contributing to the achievement of departmental and business objectives. This role requires high energy levels to thrive in our fast-paced, dynamic retail environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Buying Strategy & Execution: Develop and execute a robust buying strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Product Selection & Development: Oversee range preparation, coordination, and execution to ensure trend-right product assortments.
• Supplier & Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate contracts, and drive supplier performance.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders such as planning, design, marketing, and store operations to ensure seamless product launches.
• Market & Trend Analysis: Continuously research market trends and consumer preferences to influence buying decisions.
• Financial & In-Season Trading Management: Drive sales, manage markdowns, and respond proactively to trading challenges.
• Quality & Compliance Oversight: Ensure products meet design, fit, and quality standards in line with brand expectations.
• Travel & Industry Engagement: Attend trade shows, visit factories, and conduct global market research for trend insights.
• Leadership & Team Development: Mentor and guide junior buyers and support teams, fostering a high-performance culture.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Education: Grade 12 certificate with a relevant tertiary qualification in fashion, retail, or supply chain.
• Experience:
• Minimum 8 years experience in a buying role, ideally in homeware.
• At least 2 years of leadership experience in buying or product development.
• Strong knowledge of materials, product construction, and the retail product lifecycle.
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with Oracle and PLM software is advantageous.

Competencies & Attributes:

• A strategic thinker with a passion for fashion and trend forecasting.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Ability to balance creativity with commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Effective decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Agility and resilience to navigate a fast-moving retail environment.
• Strong leadership with a proven track record of team development.

If you are a forward-thinking and commercially driven professional ready to take the lead in buying, we would love to hear from you!

Please note:  The Cape Union Mart Group is committed to transformation. Appointments and promotions will be made based on candidates who best meet the requirements for the position. Preference will be given to candidates who will enhance the diversity of the team, aligned to our Employment Equity plan.