Purpose of the Job

• The Merchandise Manager will be responsible for managing the Key Distributors’ Merchandise team and driving the overall buying strategy. This role requires strong leadership in ensuring competitiveness, building a sound merchandise strategy, and delivering the right product mix to maximize sales, margins, and stock efficiency. The individual will play a central role in supplier negotiations, promotional planning, and aligning the merchandise strategy with customer needs and market trends.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a robust merchandise strategy aligned with company goals
• Lead, manage, and mentor the Merchandise (Buying) team to deliver optimal results
• Build and maintain strong, strategic supplier relationships
• Design and execute a marketing and promotional plan, including line selection, pricing, and promotional activities to drive sales
• Set competitive selling prices while ensuring target margins are achieved through best cost negotiations
• Manage and optimize product mix to meet customer demand and maintain competitiveness
• Build and maintain a strong, core merchandise range essential for the markets Key Distributors trade in
• Monitor and manage stock levels in line with agreed days cover and business requirements
• Identify opportunities for new product lines, strategic buy-ins, and category growth
• Analyse market trends and make data-driven decisions to stay ahead of competitors
• Forecast, budget, and plan merchandise requirements to support growth targets
• Collaborate closely with sales teams and warehouses to ensure seamless operations and delivery
• Regularly visit customers to understand market needs and strengthen Key Distributors’ market position

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Minimum of 10 years’ senior buying experience in the FMCG (Food) sector
• Tertiary qualification in Business, Supply Chain, or related field advantageous