Category Buyer, Fruit - Pick n Pay

Job Advert Summary

To compile and execute the category plans in line with the strategy, objectives and category group guidelines on format/margin and assortment strategies. To optimize the performance of the assigned categories by having clear category plans in place that are aligned to the strategy, category group guidelines and being customer-focused. To deliver the company set financial targets.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Understand negotiating position, key drivers, and desired outcomes; develop and present factual, rational, and compelling arguments to build support and gain commitment from other parties; understand when to engage in counter-negotiations to reach win-win outcomes
• Develop, propose, and implement business strategies that target category-specific growth in line with the overall Department Category Strategy
• Evaluate Commercial plans and their business impact; make recommendations for modifying plans based on findings, gain sign off and implement
• Identify and recommend process improvements that target performance, quality, work efficiency / cost reduction

• Maintain a solid working knowledge of assigned category, industry, and market; use knowledge of industry practices, business trends, distribution methods, and the competitive environment to develop buying plans
• Implement and execute tactical buying plans, ensuring alignment with category-specific growth strategies, as well as Pick n Pay’s overall business strategy
• Integrate with Store Operations and Store teams to drive the implementation of the category plan
• Communicate regularly with suppliers to mutually share financial and other performance criteria; use metrics to identify performance gaps and hold suppliers accountable for not achieving financial and other mutually agreed goals; develop and implement contingency plans to close performance gaps
• Demonstrate confidence and expertise when interacting with suppliers whilst reinforcing the importance of Pick n Pay’s values, buying strategies and corporate initiatives
• Develop and implement action plans to enable the attainment of financial goals, leveraging knowledge of factors and trends that are likely to impact financial performance of the category
• Apply the understanding of all Commercial levers in the produce environment
• Identify the sources of issues and recommend workable solutions to enhance the category performance by utilising your ability to understand and analyse complex information

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree preferable
• 3+ years Buying and Category Management experience essential
• Proven and consistent success on financial KPIs
• In-depth knowledge of store operations and in-store execution
• SAP knowledge is an added advantage
• Advanced computer literacy (Excel & Powerpoint)
• Specific knowledge of Core Produce and Produce Value-Added and High care industry essential
• Must be able to work within a matrix structure, gaining buy-in and support across a number of functions
• Must be able to handle extensive administrative activities related to the category

Competencies

• Sound knowledge of buying fundamentals
• Judgement and Decision Making
• Networking and Relationship Building
• Good Presentation skills
• Excellent Communications skills (Verbal and Written)
• Good Negotiation and Influencing skills
• Team Orientation and strong Leadership skills
• Results Orientated with a sense of urgency
• Commercial and Financial Acumen including strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data

Additional Information

Competency-based interview to assess above requirements Short-listed applicants will be subjected to relevant assessments