Sports Buyer

Role purpose: Establish a representative product line in the assigned categories to enable all stores to achieve their sales and margin targets, based on the Brands’ and/or Franchisees’ principles while maintaining a strong competitive position. Visit periodically stores to assess the value of our product line and needs and analyse the competition.

Key Accountabilities:

• Interprets the company product strategy into product ranges;
• Adheres to brand product strategy to ensure cohesive statement is maintained;
• Balances the range for the target consumer and by market in terms of price points, styles, fashion colour, etc.;
• Continuous review of in-season collection to maximize range, sales and profit;
• Analyse competitor product ranges and actions to ensure we lead;
• Interface with all different functions of the business i.e. planning and merchandising and ensures a constant information flow;
• Drive opportunities using critical path to ensure maximum flexibility to decrease markdown risk and maximise sales;
• Review department performance on a weekly basis and proposes action for trading out of poor performing areas and buying into successful areas;
• Coordinate with VM and Marketing for the implementation of the Marketing/VM/ Trade calendars; Ensure understanding of all of the critical dates in the calendar;
• Understand the market and competition well and is up to speed with trend activity;
• Meet deadlines in buying calendars and critical path;
• Work with the Merchandiser to ensure merchandise is phased in to provide the correct level of ‘newness’ for the customer according to divisional strategy;

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience within the retail industry
• Computer proficiency with advanced knowledge of Excel is a must
• Strong aptitude with numbers and clear understanding of retail math skills
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize and meet deadlines
• Ability to communicate persuasively and responsibly across a broad spectrum of stakeholders
• Excels in team-environments and in building and developing strong interpersonal relationships, while maintaining an individual determination to accomplish goals