Job description
He is responsible for planning, selecting and purchasing quantities of goods and merchandise
that are sold in retail stores.
He sources new and review existing goods to ensure the products remain competitive
Work activities
ï‚· Liaising with existing suppliers and negotiating contracts
ï‚· Sourcing and building relations with new suppliers
ï‚· Sourcing and selecting new products through catalogs and by attending national and
international trade fairs and events
ï‚· Monitoring market changes, competitor prices and products
ï‚· Analyzing past sales patterns to anticipate trends in consumer buying pattern
ï‚· Recommending clearance sales and varying delivery schedules to help control stock levels
ï‚· Presenting new ranges to retail managers
ï‚· Assisting visual merchandisers in planning store layouts to promote key lines
ï‚· Working with the advertising department in order to present sales promotions.
Work conditions
While this career offers opportunities for progression, it is highly competitive. Progression from
junior/trainee buyer to assistant buyer and then through to senior buyer is possible
Skills and qualities
ï‚· Commercial acumen and a passion for the sector and its products
ï‚· An understanding of what motivates customers to buy individual products
ï‚· Confidence combined with negotiating, influencing and networking skills
ï‚· Creativity and attention to detail
ï‚· Ability to prioritize and multitask
ï‚· Excellent analytical skills and the ability to make major decisions
ï‚· Customer focus
ï‚· Team working and leadership skills
ï‚· Numeracy and IT skills.
Post graduate degree