Footwear Buyer

Our Retail client is seeking a dynamic and forward-thinking Senior Footwear Buyer to lead the footwear department in the upcoming year.

The ideal candidate will possess the ability to independently manage the department while focusing on the introduction of new footwear brands and styles. With a keen awareness of both current and upcoming trends, this individual will be responsible for maintaining an eye on budgets, costs, and the overall growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Department Leadership:

- Take full responsibility for managing the footwear department, ensuring that objectives are met, and performance is continually improved.

- Lead, mentor, and develop the footwear team to enhance productivity, skills, and job satisfaction.

- Collaborate with senior leadership to define and execute long-term strategies for the footwear category.

2. Brand and Product Development:

- Drive the introduction of new footwear brands and styles that align with market trends and consumer demand.

- Collaborate with the design, sourcing, and marketing teams to ensure seamless integration of new brands into the existing product range.

3. Market Awareness and Trend Analysis:

- Stay ahead of emerging trends in the footwear industry, ensuring that product offerings remain competitive and innovative.

- Monitor and analyze competitors, market conditions, and consumer behavior to inform product selection and purchasing decisions.

4. Budget and Cost Management:

- Develop and manage the footwear department budget, ensuring cost-effective purchasing and profit margins.

- Work closely with finance to ensure alignment of departmental goals with overall company financial targets.

- Assess and negotiate supplier terms to ensure the best pricing and terms are secured without compromising product quality.

5. Supplier Relationship Management:

- Maintain and build strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring consistent product quality, on-time deliveries, and pricing negotiations.

6. Remote and On-Site Collaboration:

- While the role offers flexibility in location, the candidate must be prepared to travel to the East London head office once a month or every six weeks, for at least one week.

Required Skills and Experience:

- Proven experience in managing a footwear department, preferably in a senior or leadership role.
- Strong understanding of current and upcoming trends in the footwear industry, with the ability to forecast and act on these trends strategically.
- Demonstrable experience with budget management, cost control, and driving profitability within a retail or footwear environment.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills, especially in working with suppliers.
- Experience working remotely or managing teams remotely while maintaining high levels of collaboration.
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of the department, delivering results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Desired Attributes:

- A proactive, self-driven, and entrepreneurial mindset.
- Passionate about footwear and retail innovation.
- Ability to balance creativity and strategic thinking with financial responsibility.
- Adaptable to both online and in-person meetings, with a flexible approach to working arrangements.

If you have a passion for the Retail (clothing) industry, a strong management background, and the ability to drive results across multiple departments, we want to hear from you Send your CV to Alana Botha at