Pepkor Lifestyle is looking for an experienced and commercially driven Merchandise Manager to lead our Buying teams and oversee the end-to-end merchandise value chain. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving profitable sales, optimizing merchandise performance, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring exceptional customer outcomes while leading a high-performing team.
Key Responsibilities
- Stores Accountability: Oversee the merchandise strategy and assume full accountability for the following stores: Rochester, Home.Tech.Sleep,Boardmans and House & Home (non RSA).
- Lead and manage the Buying teams to deliver business objectives.
- Drive sales, gross profit, and merchandise performance across all categories.
- Develop and maintain strong supplier partnerships and negotiate strategic trading agreements.
- Oversee product ranging, promotional planning, and marketing initiatives.
- Monitor merchandise performance, inventory health, and key business metrics.
- Ensure customer-centric decision-making across all merchandise activities.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team while driving succession planning and employee engagement.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, processes, and governance standards.
Minimum Requirements
- Matric with a Degree or Diploma in Business Management, Procurement, or a related field.
- 5+ years’ buying and procurement experience within the Lounge, Case Goods, and Patio Furniture.
- 3+ years’ merchandise management experience, including direct people management.
- Proven track record in supplier management, contract negotiation, and range planning.
- Proficiency in SAP and Google Workspace/Microsoft Suite.
Key Competencies
- Commercial & Financial Acumen: Entrepreneurial thinking with strong analytical and financial skills to drive strategy and profitability.
- Negotiation & Influence: Outstanding capability in vendor management, contract negotiation, and stakeholder influence.
- Leadership & People Management: Proven ability to manage direct reports, communicate vision, and present effectively to business stakeholders.
- Planning & Execution: Strong organisational skills with a strategic approach to merchandise and category management.
Join a dynamic retail environment where innovation, collaboration, and customer focus drive our success. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact while leading a talented merchandise team.