Buyer

SUMMARY:
A Buyer is required to join one of South Africa’s leading importers and distributors of fashion and beauty accessories. This position is based in Sandton.

POSITION INFO:
Key responsibilities:
Buying & Product Development:

• Identify and source fast-moving fashion accessories, gift items, and beauty tools aligned with seasonal trends and retailer strategies.
• Build product ranges tailored to different retail formats and target markets.
• Manage critical paths, pricing, MOQ negotiations, and order timelines with overseas suppliers.
• Monitor sales, react to performance, and initiate repeat or markdown strategies.

• Create clear and accurate product CADs and mock-ups for presentation and development.
• Design packaging artwork (hang tags, header cards, blister packs, etc.) in accordance with retailer guidelines and brand positioning.
• Assist in the design of marketing materials and lookbooks for internal and client-facing use.
• Ensure consistency in branding, tone, and layout across product lines and categories.

• Analyze local and international markets for trend direction and competitor activity.
• Interpret seasonal trends into commercial product ideas, including moodboards and colour palettes.
• Present concept and range boards to senior management and retail buyers.

• 3+ years’ experience in retail buying or product development in fashion (preferential)
• Intermediate graphic design experience in Adobe Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Strong commercial eye with a deep understanding of trend application in a mass retail context.
• Experience working with Chinese suppliers and managing import timelines and costing.
• Excellent presentation, planning, and communication skills.
• Adobe Illustrator – Essential for product CADs and tech packs.
• Photoshop – Retouching, marketing visuals, and mock-ups.
• InDesign – Layouts for presentations, catalogues, and lookbooks.
• Excel – Budgeting, costing sheets, and order tracking.
• Strong sense of urgency and attention to detail.
• Flexible and fast-thinking – able to pivot based on trends or retailer needs.
• Creative and analytical mindset – balancing design with commercial acumen.
• Team player who thrives in a deadline-driven, trend-conscious environment.