Senior Merchandise Buyer

Listing reference: toptt_000007

Listing status: Online

Apply by: 10 December 2026

Position summary

Industry: Wholesale & Retail Trade

Job category: Retail Operations

Location: Johannesburg

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: No

Introduction

TopT is looking for a dynamic team player to join the business as a Senior Buyer. Own and grow Top T’s tiling category market share and profitability. Lead category and sourcing strategy, product development, range, pricing, margin, promotions, stock health and supplier performance to deliver sustainable sales, product availability and customer value across stores, projects and digital channels.

Job description

· Own category budgets, forecasts and trading performance; manage sales, gross profit, margin, rebates, markdowns and costs, and drive corrective action.
· Build a customer-led category strategy and differentiated ranges by price tier, region and channel; manage product lifecycles, exits and range productivity.
· Partner with local and international factories on new product development, from briefs and target costs to testing, quality, compliance and launch reviews.
· Lead sourcing, supplier negotiations and contracts; improve total cost, payment terms, quality and delivery, and maintain supply-continuity plans.
· Develop joint business plans with regional leaders and franchisees covering ranges, project opportunities, promotions, stock commitments, displays and training.
· Set competitive pricing and promotional plans with Marketing and Operations; ensure stock availability, store execution and digital readiness.
· Maintain accurate trading reports, master data, contracts and audit records; escalate risks, improve processes and coach junior buying colleagues.

Minimum requirements

· Relevant bachelor’s degree or diploma in Commerce, Supply Chain, Procurement, Retail Management or a related discipline.
· 5–7 years buying, category management or sourcing experience in tile buying or fashion retail, with strong product development experience and demonstrated ownership of sales, gross profit, margin, stock and supplier outcomes.
· Proven ability to lead cross-functional delivery without direct authority, coach junior buyers and influence executives, factories, suppliers, regional teams and franchisees.
· Preferred or advantageous: At least 2 years at senior buyer or equivalent level; tiles, flooring, home improvement or similar category experience; CIPS or a postgraduate business qualification.

Essential skills & knowledge

· Commercial and financial analysis: category income statements, budgeting, margin, landed cost, total cost of ownership and promotional return on investment.
· Category strategy, customer and competitor insight, trend analysis, range architecture, lifecycle management and omnichannel ranging.
· Product development, factory collaboration, pricing, cost management and supplier risk and performance management.
· Negotiation, contracts and ethical sourcing; clear communication, stakeholder influence, collaboration, analytical judgement, accountability and delivery at pace.