Purpose of the Job
The purpose of a Buyer Designate is to support and execute buying activities for a defined product category within the OK Franchise portfolio by maintaining product ranges, managing supplier interactions, and administering pricing and promotions, ensuring availability, competitiveness, and alignment to Group guidelines and franchise requirements.
Job Objectives
Product Range Administration
Implement approved category ranges in line with Group and OK Franchise requirements
Monitor range performance and recommend adjustments based on sales trends and store feedback
Maintain accurate product listings, specifications, and records
Support range rationalisation activities to ensure relevant and commercially viable assortments
Pricing and Cost Management
Maintain product cost prices in line with approved pricing structures
Monitor and review competitor pricing and market movements
Support supplier negotiations by preparing data and analysis for decision-making
Promotions and Advertising Support
Assist in the coordination of promotional activities and campaigns
Monitor stock availability to support promotional execution
Provide and validate product and pricing information to marketing teams
Track promotional performance and highlight risks or gaps
Supplier Coordination and Support
Liaise with suppliers to track orders, resolve queries, and ensure delivery timelines
Maintain supplier information and documentation
Support onboarding of new suppliers in line with procurement processes
Escalate risks related to supply, pricing, or service delivery
Stock and Availability Management
Monitor stock levels in the DC and identify potential shortages
Work with distribution centres and suppliers to resolve supply issues
Market and Trend Monitoring
Monitor customer trends, competitor activity, and product performance
Identify gaps or opportunities and recommend improvements to the category
Maintain awareness of franchise store requirements and trading conditions
Administrative and Process Compliance
Maintain accurate records across buying systems and documentation
Ensure compliance with procurement policies, pricing governance, and audit requirements
Support reporting and data analysis for category reviews
Contribute to continuous improvement of buying processes
Qualifications
Grade 12 or equivalent - (essential).
Degree or Diploma in Business, Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field - (essential)
Experience
+3 years' experience in a buying role, with demonstrable experience executing all aspects of the buying process for a large retail organisation or similar - (essential).
Demonstrable experience with sourcing and supplier management along with complex vendor / supplier negotiations - (essential).
Knowledge and Skills
Well-developed understanding of supply chain concepts, processes and systems - (essential).
Comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing a product's cost and selling prices - (essential).
Knowledge of commercial and financial trade-offs in category sales - (essential).
Understanding of the retail value chain and profitability drivers - (essential).
Proficiency in MS Office 365 with advanced Excel skills - (essential).
Closing Date
2026/07/21