Category Buyer

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Issue and manage POs in alignment with Slimstock-generated requirements.
• Validate quantities, pricing, pack sizes and delivery commitments.
• Manage supplier OTIF performance and resolve shortages or discrepancies.
• Ensure promotional readiness and confirm supplier capacity for peak events.
• Maintain accurate cost files, pack size data, lead times and calendars.
• Resolve invoice and GRV discrepancies with Finance.
• Escalate inbound risks early and coordinate with Replenishment and DC Ops.
• Support Merchandising with supplier intelligence and category insights where relevant.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREA'S(KPA’S):

• OTIF
• Cost accuracy
• Promo readiness
• Supplier performance trends
• Alignment to replenishment plan

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills, aligned to the HO HOLA values.
• Friendly, helpful, confident, humble, and team-oriented with strong emotional intelligence.
• Ability to operate in a competitive, high-pressure, dynamic retail environment.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to influence and build trust.
• High accuracy, attention to detail, and strong administrative capability.
• Demonstrates integrity, ownership, resilience, and a willingness to go the extra mile.
• Merchandising operations and retail systems proficiency.
• Product, pricing, promotion, and supplier administration.
• Data accuracy, analysis, and reporting.
• Planning, organisation, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Problem solving, ownership, and accountability.
• Strong attention to detail and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Effective communication, relationship building, and team collaboration.
• Customer focus and stakeholder service orientation.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Degree or Diploma in Supply Chain, Procurement, Logistics or Commerce
• 2–6 years in inbound procurement or retail buying
• Strong Excel and commercial numeracy
• CIPS Level 4+ (Preferred)
• SAPICS Certificate (Preferred)
• Short courses in supplier management or procurement analytics (Preferred)