HEAD OF BUYING

The Head of Buying will oversee the comprehensive merchandise and buying strategy for a fashion-led women's retail business encompassing clothing, footwear, accessories, and beauty. This leadership position is responsible for translating customer insights, fashion trends, and commercial data into a compelling, relevant, and profitable product proposition. Qualifications A relevant tertiary qualification in Fashion, Clothing Production, Product Development, Merchandising, Retail, business management, or a related field is preferred. Matric/Grade 12 is essential. Knowledge, Skills and Experience Approximately 8 years’ experience in merchandising within fashion, apparel, footwear, or a comparable multi-category retail environment. A minimum of 5 years of experience in women's fashion/ladies' wear. At least 3 years’ experience in a senior management role with accountability for leading and developing teams. Demonstrated experience owning or materially shaping a buying strategy and translating it into measurable commercial outcomes. Strong end-to-end understanding of the clothing retail cycle and the relationship between buying, planning, sourcing, supply, and trading. Experience in a multi-store retail environment; omnichannel/e-commerce exposure is highly advantageous. Strong analytical capability and confidence working with merchandise systems, reporting, and commercial data. Buying strategy, range building, and assortment planning. Strong knowledge of women's fashion trends and customer behavior. Understanding of trend forecasting and translating trends into commercial product. Sales, margin, and profitability management. Open-to-Buy (OTB) principles and merchandise budgeting Local and international sourcing principles. Supplier selection, negotiation and performance management Leading senior buying and merchandising teams. Performance management and accountability Key Responsibilities Define the Buying & Merchandise Strategy Lead Range & Assortment Strategy Drive Commercial & Trading Performance Shape sourcing, supplier, and value management Build, lead and develop a high-performing buying team Be a key strategic partner to the business leadership team and other business stakeholders. Lead Commercial Decision-Making Through Data & Insight #J-18808-Ljbffr Speciality Service Co