Ares Holdings Is Recruiting: Buyer Intern (12-Months) – Cape Town, South Africa

CLOSING DATE: 04 AUGUST 2023

Job Description

The position watches consumer patterns, such as seasonal purchasing and presents their findings to the planning and management teams. Additionally, the Junior Buyer offers insight on ways to alter merchandise assortments in order to increase revenue and minimise loss. This is done by analysing sales data (macro & micro consumer trends and spending), frequent reporting cadence, planning tools management and highlighting inventory areas which need addressing.

Analyst

Monitor sales data, by price, category, trend, geography, consumer, etc., post season, in season and pre-season
Identify and understand purchasing trends and make recommendations, for example “X% of consumers in Sandton are shopping for kids, making up X% of total business. Propose to increase Kids mix and inventory to X level”
Monitoring the timing and scope of seasonal changes
Make recommendations and assist with merchandising
Develop supply strategies that will minimize stock outs while maximising inventory turns
Develop and continuously evaluate all reports from purchase orders to sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans
Communicating with Stores where necessary
Monitoring in season trade and react accordingly
Set up seasonal line lists per store
Analyse Market Place sales and assist in ensuring the right product is available at the right time.
Inventory Management

Understand and maintain desired inventory levels, inventory turns, OTB and assortments.
Ensure plans are in place to meet consumer trends, marketing launches, promotional activation, etc.
Oversee shipping, receiving and warehousing of merchandise
Develop and maintain an integrated planning process that deals with customer demand, upselling opportunities in high demand end uses, EOL & stock to management in accordance with budgeted guidance (OTB), to consume against future seasons.
Develop and maintain inventory reporting (achievement to target, margins, inventory health, shipping schedule vs SAP, etc.)
Placing Purchase Orders (pre & in season)
Order Tracking and reporting
GTM, SKU, Pricing and Order form setup
Develop and maintain an accurate ATS (Available to Sell) to be refreshed and published on a frequent cadence
Assist with pricing structure for staff purchases and sample sales when necessary

Reporting

Shipping schedule
Inbound Containers
Location Reviews
Inventory Tracker Tool
Retail Top Seller
Weekly Sales
Return Managements
ATS
Any reporting pack agreed to with management or to fulfil your role’s responsibilities
General

Maintaining a professional image whilst in the office or travelling
Assist with any adhoc duties

Requirements

Relevant tertiary qualification
1-2 years’ experience in a similar role
Stores experience will be an advantage
A strong understanding of lifestyle footwear brands and the market opportunities within the retail, wholesale and Ecommerce sector
Strong administration skills
Strong merchant skills
Highly numerate and able to deal with large volumes of data
Organized and deadline driven with exceptional attention to detail
Sound understanding of supplier profiles
Must have good problem-solving skills
Understanding of supply chain processes and concepts
Ability to prioritize tasks according to importance in a fast-paced environment
Multi-tasking capability without compromising on quality
Dependable, punctual and able to work flexible working hours
Valid Driver’s licence and own transport
Willing to travel locally