A leading retail company situated in Cape Town is urgently seeking the expertise of an experienced Category Buyer to join their team.The successful incumbent for this position will be responsible for:NegotiationUnderstands negotiating position, key drivers, and desired outcomes; develops and presents factual, rational, and compelling arguments to build support and gain commitment from other parties;Understands when to engage in counter-negotiations to reach win-win outcomesManages disagreements and conflicts by using diplomacy and controlling emotions;Anticipates negotiating roadblocks and objectionsCategory StrategyUses Category internal and external data to develop and recommend business strategies that target category-specific growthEvaluates merchandising plans and their business impact;Makes recommendations for modifying plans based on findingsIdentifies and recommends process improvements that target performance, quality, work efficiency/cost reductionCategory PerformanceUses internal and external data to understand category performance (sales, margin, availability, waste, stock, RTC, strike rates, own brand etc).Maintains a solid working knowledge of the assigned category, industries, and markets;Uses knowledge of industry practices, business trends, distribution methods, and the competitive environment to develop buying plansImplements and executes tactical buying plans, ensuring alignment with category-specific growth strategies, as well as an overall business strategySupplier RelationsCommunicates regularly with suppliers to mutually share financial and other performance criteria;Uses metrics to identify performance gaps and hold suppliers accountable for achieving financial and other mutually agreed-upon goals;develops and implement contingency plans to close performance gapsDevelops and maintains relationships with suppliers;Demonstrates confidence and expertise when interacting with suppliersPrivate Brand Strategy and DevelopmentImplements and executes Private Brand category strategy, ensuring alignment with category-specific growth strategies, as well as an overall business strategyDevelops merchandising solutions to achieve business goals and influence financial performanceIdentifies and applies knowledge of key industry trends and market forces to positively impact merchandisingKey requirements:Preferably relevant University Degree3-4 years of retail experienceExperience in Category Management and Buying experience in the Baby (Non-Edibles) divisionProven and consistent success on financial KPIsSAP knowledge and Analysis are essentialHire Resolve is a top-tier recruitment firm that focuses on placing skilled professionals in permanent employment.Hire Resolve focuses on working with senior-level executives and we pride ourselves on delivering excellent service to our candidates and clients.Salary: negotiable.Our client is offering a highly competitive salary for this role based on experience.Apply for this role today, visit the Hire Resolve website: hireresolve.us or email us at Logistics@hireresolve.za.comAlternatively, you are welcome to connect with Rebecca Grylls and Nehelene Lourens on LinkedIn#J-18808-Ljbffr