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