Five Rivers operates as a specialised grocery retailer catering to multicultural communities, with a primary focus on Indian and Asian food products. The business sources a wide range of culturally specific items through both international imports and established New Zealand-based ethnic suppliers to meet the diverse needs of its customer base.

Core Responsibilities

  • Assess customer purchasing patterns, sales reports, and community preferences to determine appropriate product selection, quantities, and replenishment cycles
  • Source grocery items from overseas suppliers (primarily India) as well as domestic distributors specialising in ethnic food products
  • Conduct commercial negotiations with suppliers regarding pricing, supply terms, and delivery arrangements to maintain cost-effective procurement
  • Review product specifications, packaging standards, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance with New Zealand import and food safety regulations
  • Maintain optimal inventory levels by monitoring stock movement, identifying slow-moving items, and ensuring consistent availability of high-demand products
  • Identify new product lines and supplier opportunities to enhance the store’s offering and respond to evolving market trends
  • Liaise with suppliers to coordinate timely dispatch and delivery of goods, ensuring minimal disruption to store operations
  • Maintain accurate procurement documentation, supplier records, and purchasing data for operational and audit purposes
  • Work closely with the Store Manager to align purchasing activities with sales performance, promotional planning, and business objectives
  • Develop relationships with local businesses such as restaurants and small retailers to explore bulk supply or wholesale opportunities
  • Oversee stock handling practices including storage planning, stock rotation, and expiry management to comply with health and safety requirements
  • Continuously review procurement outcomes and introduce process improvements to enhance supplier performance and purchasing efficiency

Skills Required:

  • Relevant qualification in business, administration, commerce, economic, supply chain, or a related field OR at least 2–3 years of relevant experience in retail, buying, management, inventory control, or procurement
  • A qualification in the field of business, administration, commerce, economics, Supply chain/logistics etc required (if you don’t have relevant work experience)
  • Must be available on weekends, public holidays if required
  • Understanding of ethnic grocery products, particularly Indian and Asian food categories, is advantageous
  • Ability to analyse sales data and make informed purchasing decisions
  • Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
  • Effective communication skills for dealing with both domestic and international suppliers
  • Flexibility to engage with overseas suppliers across time zones
  • Basic proficiency in inventory systems and record-keeping tools

Other Details:

  • Min 33 to max 45 hours per week
  • Hourly rate between $28 to $35 based on experience
  • Hours between mid morning to 9pm depending on the supplier’s availability with 1-2 days off
  • No of Positions: 1
Employer Questions

Your application will include the following question(s):

  • Your current visa status
Apply Now
Save