Buyer – Job Description
Position: Buyer
Employment Type: Full-time
Role Summary
The Buyer is responsible for sourcing, selecting, and purchasing products or materials that align with the company's sales, inventory, and profitability goals. The role involves supplier management, negotiation, market analysis, and inventory planning to ensure the right products are available at competitive prices.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers and products based on quality, cost, and demand.
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, contracts, and delivery schedules with vendors.
- Purchase merchandise, raw materials, or products according to business requirements.
- Analyze sales trends, customer preferences, and market conditions to make buying decisions.
- Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment activities.
- Collaborate with merchandising, planning, logistics, and retail teams.
- Track supplier performance and maintain strong vendor relationships.
- Ensure timely delivery of goods and resolve supply-related issues.
- Review product performance and recommend assortment changes.
- Prepare purchasing reports, budgets, and forecasts.
- Stay informed about industry trends, competitor offerings, and new products.
Requirements & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Retail Management, Commerce, or a related field.
- Proven experience as a Buyer, Purchasing Officer, Procurement Specialist, or similar role.
- Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
- Knowledge of procurement processes and inventory management.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.
- Strong analytical, communication, and organizational abilities.
Preferred Skills
- Experience in retail, fashion, FMCG, manufacturing, or e-commerce industries.
- Understanding of category management and assortment planning.
- Financial and commercial awareness.
- Ability to analyze sales and inventory data to make informed purchasing decisions.
- Knowledge of import/export and supply chain processes is an advantage.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Purchase cost savings
- Inventory turnover rate
- Supplier performance and delivery accuracy
- Stock availability and fill rate
- Gross margin performance
- Purchase order accuracy
- Reduction in stock shortages and overstock situations
Core Competencies
- Strategic sourcing
- Negotiation and influencing skills
- Supplier relationship management
- Market analysis
- Inventory planning
- Financial acumen
- Decision-making and problem-solving
Typical Industries
- Retail and fashion
- FMCG
- Manufacturing
- E-commerce
- Electronics
- Hospitality
- Construction and industrial supply
