Category Buyer

**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

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 KPI’s

In-depth knowledge of store operations and in-store execution

SAP knowledge is an added advantage

Advanced computer literacy (Excel & Powerpoint)

Specific knowledge on Fresh and Longlife Milk is 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 categor

**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

Commerical and Financial Acumen including strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data

**Additional Information**:
Competency-based interview to assess above requirements