SENIOR ACCESSORIES BUYER – CAPE TOWN

Cape Union Mart – Head Office

A fantastic opportunity exists for an experienced and highly skilled Senior Accessories Buyer within our Cape Union Mart Division. We’re looking for a strategic, commercially driven individual with strong product development expertise and the ability to lead the creation of a market‑leading range of own‑brand and branded accessories.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the sourcing, development and management of a commercially strong own‑brand product assortment across multiple categories.
• Drive seasonal product strategies and manage relationships with international branded suppliers.
• Mentor and support buying team members, providing guidance on best practices and product development processes.
• Partner with Merchandise Planning to manage and optimize Open‑to‑Buy (OTB).
• Prepare and present strategic range reviews to senior leadership.
• Ensure all product imagery and information are optimized for E‑commerce.
• Own end‑to‑end marketing briefs and alignment on key seasonal stories.
• Conduct continuous research into global and local market trends and apply insights to range direction.
• Lead negotiations with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing, quality and delivery reliability.
• Oversee supplier performance, risk management and adherence to company terms.
• Ensure all own‑brand products comply with South African consumer standards and import requirements.
• Drive product quality assurance, including testing and compliance checks before launch.
• Conduct regular store visits to identify opportunities and improve product performance.
• Collaborate with stores and relevant teams to deliver effective product training.
• Monitor product lifecycle, stock levels, sell‑through and customer needs to inform future decisions.

Knowledge, Experience & Qualifications

• Grade 12 and a relevant Retail Diploma/Degree.
• 5+ years experience as a Buyer, with proven experience working at a senior or advanced level.
• Strong background in product development and working with international suppliers.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to build and deliver profitable ranges.
• Excellent understanding of costing, margins, pricing architecture and sourcing strategies.
• Must be willing and able to travel locally and internationally.

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong analytical and strategic thinking ability.
• Deep interest in electronics, gadgets and emerging categories.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills.
• Proactive, solutions‑focused and comfortable managing ambiguity.
• Strong relationship‑builder with internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to lead, mentor and inspire others.
• Highly organized with strong time‑management skills.
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to communicate complex information clearly.

Employment Equity                                                                   

Cape Union Mart is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates who support the achievement of our Employment Equity objectives.