Dis-Chem Pharmacies’ Head Office in Midrand has an opportunity available for a Category Buyer to join the procurement team. The main purpose of this role will be to manage suppliers, trading terms, market analysis, product selection/ buying, planning, stock management, driving turnover and profit.

Minimum Requirements…

Essential:

• Grade 12 / Matric with Mathematics and Accounting
• Minimum of 3 years Category Buying experience
• Degree or Diploma in Finance/Retail Management or any similar qualification
• SAP BI, Qlikview experience
• Computer skills – (Excel, Word, Powerpoint)

Job Specification…

• Implement strategies to improve profitability of the category.
• Analyse consumer buying patterns to predict future trends in order to choose most profitable product ranges.
• Manage plans to ensure optimal stock levels for the business at all times.
• Develop and adhere to category plan that includes category sales, profit, market shares, second stock returns, ROCE.
• Ensure a detailed marketing plan is formulated and that it`s in line with the overall company strategy.
• Identify and develop various Dis-Chem category pricing and promotion strategies to ensure customer needs are met while remaining competitive in the market.
• Evaluate product quality by using customer feedback as a measuring tool.
• Report on category plans on a monthly basis.
• Develop a yearly category operating strategy and ensure it is in line with the Dis-Chem strategic category objective.
• Compile reports on relevant products and their sales, quality and feedback.
• Maintain relationships with existing suppliers while sourcing new suppliers for future products.
• Negotiating prices and delivery contracts with suppliers.
• Review supplier contracts and ensure they are valid, in line with industry standards and industry good practice.

Competencies

Essential:

• Knowledge of Industry standards, relevant product laws and regulations, Retail and Buying
• Knowledge and understanding of market trends and competitor analysis, supplier negotiations, trading terms, financial planning
• Brand understanding
• English – Read, write and speak well
• Analytical problem solving skills
• Negotiation and persuasion skills
• Good communication skills
• Need to have an understanding of the financial implications that goes with the tasks involved
• Be able to achieve budget inventory levels
• Ability to work under pressure
• Deadline driven
• Time management

Special conditions of employment:

• South African citizen
• MIE, clear criminal and credit
• Driver’s license and/or own reliable transport

Remuneration and benefits:

• Market related salary
• Medical aid
• Provident fund
• Staff account

ONLY SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED. IF YOU HAVEN`T BEEN CONTACTED WITHIN TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CLOSING DATE CONSIDER YOUR APPLICATION AS UNSUCCESSFUL.

Chem Pharmacies is an equal opportunity employer. Dis-Chem’s approved Employment Equity Plan and targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process aligned to Dis-Chem’s Employment Equity & Transformation Strategy. Dis-Chem actively supports the recruitment of People with Disabilities.