Retail Buyer

R & S (2020) LIMITED trading as Four Square Rifle Road Taupo,

We are dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality groceries at affordable prices. As a well-established grocery retailer, we pride ourselves on offering fresh produce, pantry staples, local goods, and unique products to meet the needs of our diverse customer base. We are currently seeking a Retail Buyer to join our dynamic team and help ensure that our store's offerings reflect the best in quality, variety, and value. It is a Full Time Role- 30 to 40 hours per week. Pay Starts from $30 per hour.

As a Retail Buyer for our grocery store, you will be responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing the product assortment for our store. Your role will involve working closely with suppliers to secure the best pricing, quality, and delivery schedules, while ensuring that our shelves are always stocked with the products that our customers need. You will need to stay ahead of food trends, anticipate demand for seasonal products, and ensure our grocery department runs smoothly and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

• Product Selection & Sourcing: Identify and source new grocery products, focusing on freshness, quality, and customer demand. Ensure a broad and competitive product offering across all categories, including fresh produce, dairy, meat, dry goods, and specialty items.
• Vendor Management & Negotiation: Build strong, collaborative relationships with vendors and negotiate favorable terms, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms. Maintain open communication to resolve any issues promptly.
• Inventory & Stock Management: Maintain optimal stock levels across all grocery categories, ensuring the store is fully stocked with in-demand items without overstocking perishable goods. Monitor inventory turnover and adjust orders accordingly.
• Seasonal Planning & Promotions: Plan for seasonal product assortments and promotions, ensuring that the store is stocked with the right products to meet changing customer preferences and demand.
• Trend Analysis: Keep up with the latest grocery and food trends, customer preferences, and new product innovations. Ensure the product range stays current and appealing to our customers.
• Sales & Performance Monitoring: Analyze sales data and product performance to make informed purchasing decisions. Track sales trends and adjust orders as necessary to capitalize on high-demand items or clear slow-moving stock.
• Cost Control & Budgeting: Manage purchasing budgets to ensure that costs are kept in line with targets while maintaining product quality and profitability.
• Quality Control: Ensure that all products meet the company's quality standards, particularly with regard to perishable items like fresh produce, meat, and dairy. Work with suppliers to address any quality issues.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with store operations, marketing, and merchandising teams to align product offerings with customer needs and upcoming promotions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Retail Management, or a related field is required.
• Previous experience as a Retail Buyer in the grocery or food retail industry would be advantageous (2+ years may replace qualification requirements).
• Strong understanding of grocery product categories, including fresh produce, dairy, meat, and packaged goods.
• Experience with negotiating supplier contracts and managing vendor relationships.
• Analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and make data-driven decisions.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, especially in managing inventory and stock levels.
• Knowledge of food trends, dietary preferences (e.g., organic, gluten-free, vegan), and the grocery supply chain.
• Proficient with retail management systems, inventory control software, and MS Excel (experience with ERP systems is a plus).
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Suitable candidate must be flexible to work on a weekends and public holidays.
• Happy to work early mornings