Buyer/Product Developer – Poetry Homeware needed at Cape Union Mart

Job Description
Buyer/Product developer – Poetry Homeware

• An opportunity has become available in our Poetry Department for a resilient, innovative and resourceful Product Developer/Buyer for Homeware who can add value to our Poetry Team through the successful trending, sourcing and procurement of Homeware merchandise for our Poetry brand.
• The successful candidate should have a keen eye for detail and design, with a strong interest in buying.
• Our ideal candidate will have the ability to significantly contribute towards the achievement of our department and business objectives as well as have the high energy levels required for this fast-paced, exciting and dynamic retail environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Creative product development of fashionable, yet commercial product ranges and appropriate route to market strategies
• Research, design, source & procure product in line with our brand DNA that meets customers’ quality and value expectations.
• Critical Path, order management and range execution in alignment with the business objectives
• Drive innovation by sourcing and prioritizing new brands and suppliers according to this growth plan and in line with market trends and consumer demand.
• Range preparation, coordination, and presentation
• Presenting range reviews, post seasonal and marketing briefs
• Drive continuous progression of sourcing new suppliers and new products with both a local and international mindset.
• Negotiate and manage supplier contracts and the successful onboarding of new suppliers.
• Building and maintaining persuasive and impactful relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders 
• Effectively collaborating with the relevant stakeholders and departments to support your categories to optimal performance.
• Overseeing the Product Quality and Suitability
• Identify and develop new products and manage each stage of the process through take to market.
• Controlling sample stock through effective OTB management and active trading, linked to product performance.
• General buying administrative functions.
• Project manage across e-commerce, marketing, store communication and merchandise to ensure timely exposure of appropriate products.  

Requirements:

• Grade 12 certificate and a relevant tertiary qualification is required.
• 5+ years of retail merchandise buying experience in homeware is essential.
• Must have experience in any of these categories: Bath & Body (wellness), Furniture, Gifting, Décor
• Working knowledge of the retail cycle and merchandise buying principles and processes
• A working knowledge of the latest Microsoft packages is required . 
• Strong commercial acumen
• Existing industry networks a significant plus

Job Related Behavioural Competencies.

• Analytical thinking and problem solving
• Eagerness to learn.
• Time Management and ability to meet deadlines and overcome challenges.
• Ability to clearly and concisely articulate problems and explain exactly how to reproduce them.
• Being proactive and taking initiative in your role.
• Ability to effectively work in a team environment while being self-directed and highly motivated.
• Team player
• Ability to build strong relationships. Proven track record of negotiation skills and strong relationship management
• Verbal and written communication skill