Buyers Assistant Opportunity at Ackermans

Ackermans is seeking a dedicated and organised Buyers Assistant to join its dynamic buying team. This entry-level role is perfect for individuals looking to kickstart their career in the fast-paced and exciting world of retail fashion. As a Buyers Assistant, you will play a pivotal support role, ensuring the smooth administrative functioning of the buying process and contributing directly to bringing quality, affordable fashion to customers across South Africa. This position offers an invaluable opportunity to learn the intricacies of the retail merchandise cycle, from trend identification to product delivery, within a leading value retailer.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute all administration relating to the Buying process, including tendering processes, preparation of discussion documents, and capturing & monitoring purchase orders.
• Manage style cards and samples, ensuring all product samples are tracked and organised efficiently for reviews and presentations.
• Assist with managing on-time delivery by diligently following up on all samples and liaising with suppliers.
• Provide general assistance to the Buyer/s with preparation for all merchandise-related activities that require product to be pulled, sorted, ordered, and hung.
• Prepare all documents required for business plans, strategy sessions, and range reviews, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Manage supplier queries, sample management, mark-downs, and general administration tasks to support the buying department's operational efficiency.
• Communicate and follow-up effectively with all relevant internal and external customers and key relationships, fostering strong partnerships.

Why Join the Company

Joining Ackermans means becoming part of a well-established and respected South African retail brand that is committed to providing value and quality to its customers. As a Buyers Assistant, you will be immersed in a vibrant and collaborative work environment where learning and growth are encouraged. Ackermans prides itself on its strong company culture, offering employees opportunities for professional development and career progression within the broader Pepkor Group. You will gain hands-on experience in a critical function of retail, working alongside experienced professionals and contributing to a brand that touches millions of lives. This role is an excellent stepping stone for a long-term career in retail buying, planning, or merchandising, offering exposure to diverse product categories and market dynamics.

How to Apply

Please apply using the Quick Apply button on this page.

* Salary is estimated based on market research and may not be accurate.

• Matric (Essential)
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Retail/Fashion/Administration or related field (Preferred)
• Previous experience (minimum of 1 year) in a Buyer's Assistant, Administrative or Intern role in a Corporate Retail/Buying environment.
• Proficiency in the latest Microsoft packages (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• An understanding of the Clothing Retail Cycle & Buying process
• Knowledge of retail systems / PLM tools
• Ability to communicate effectively both within, as well as outside the Company
• Ability to build and maintain relationships
• Strong prioritisation skills and assertiveness
• Proactive, deadline-driven, and flexible to adapt to change
• Sound planning, organizing, and time management skills
• Fast and accurate with regards to processing and checking detail
• Ability to be 'hands on' when the buyer is travelling and represent the department where necessary.