Buyer - FMCG (Retail)
Location: Jhb/Midrand
Industry: Quick Commerce | FMCG | Retail
Remuneration: R300K R400K per annum (CTC) + potential performance-based incentives
Working Model: Hybrid (3 days in office / 2 days remote)
Company Overview: The company is a rapidly growing player in the quick commerce space, with 18 national sites currently operational and plans to expand to 25 by year-end. The company operates fast-paced, dark-store-style convenience retail locations, servicing customers with 60-minute delivery across a variety of product categories.
Role Summary:
We are seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven Buyer with proven experience in FMCG and/or retail procurement to join this fast-growing and fast-paced business.
This is a senior individual contributor role with responsibility for national buying across 3,000+ SKUs including groceries, liquor, vapes, fresh produce, imported goods, and personal care items.
Key Responsibilities:
Own the end-to-end buying function: supplier engagement, product selection, pricing, ordering, and negotiation.
Analyse inventory trends and sales data to inform stock decisions and promotions.
Maintain and develop strong supplier relationships, securing best prices, improved payment terms, and new product listings.
Negotiate proactively on pricing, deals, and promotions always with a commercial and margin-driven mindset.
Visit stores to assess merchandising, stock quality, and sales performance.
Collaborate with stock controllers, systems personnel, and warehouse staff to streamline supply chain operations.
Identify opportunities to consolidate suppliers or improve the supply chain across multiple categories.
Support KPI-based initiatives such as cost savings, stock turnaround times, and promotional uplift. Candidate Profile:
35 years buying/procurement experience within an FMCG and/or retail environment is essential.
Strong understanding of fast-paced, high-SKU environments.
Excellent negotiation, relationship-building, and supplier management skills.
Analytical and commercially astute able to spot trends and act on them quickly.
Comfortable with being hands-on at store level.
Although working hours are structured (typically 8am5pm), some after-hours responsiveness may be required based on operational needs.
Strong verbal communication skills and confident phone manner.
Independent, energetic, and comfortable working in a hybrid, high-accountability role.