Buyer: Girls | Ackermans Careers – Cape Town, Western Cape
Company: Ackermans
Location: Ackermans Support Centre, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Job Title: Buyer – Girls
Department: Buying
Employment Type: Full-Time
Date Posted: 19 May 2025
Application Closing Date: Not specified
About the Company
Ackermans is one of South Africa’s most trusted fashion retailers, renowned for offering stylish and affordable clothing for families across Southern Africa. With a legacy of more than 100 years, Ackermans continues to grow and innovate in a competitive retail environment. The company is dedicated to delivering fashion that resonates with every customer – and you could be part of that mission.
Role Overview
Are you a fashion-forward thinker with a pulse on the latest girlswear trends? Ackermans is seeking a dynamic and trend-savvy Buyer to join its vibrant Girlswear Department. This position calls for a creative but analytical mind – someone who not only understands style but can also translate data and customer insights into profitable, trend-right product ranges. You’ll collaborate with designers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders to ensure Ackermans continues to lead the market in value-driven fashion.
If you’re a self-starter, a keen negotiator, and passionate about shaping fashion trends for the younger generation – this is your opportunity to shine!
Key Responsibilities
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Develop and maintain trend-relevant product ranges for the Girlswear department
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Work with the design team to interpret trends and translate them into commercial products
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Conduct market research and competitor analysis to understand consumer preferences
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Manage the product development cycle, from concept to delivery
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Oversee supplier relationships and negotiate cost-effective deals
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Analyze sales and performance data to drive buying decisions and improve profitability
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Align product strategy with Ackermans’ customer needs and business goals
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Travel internationally to attend buying trips, trade shows, and sourcing missions
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Collaborate with planning, marketing, and store teams to ensure product success across all channels
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum Requirements
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Grade 12 / Matric Certificate – Essential
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3–5 years of proven retail experience in apparel procurement, ideally in Kidswear
Preferred Qualifications
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A Diploma or Degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, Clothing Production, Merchandising, or Product Development is advantageous
Essential Knowledge
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In-depth understanding of South Africa’s retail clothing market, customer segments, and competitors
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Familiarity with the fashion retail cycle, critical path, and buying process
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Insight into product components, fabric constructions, and styling techniques
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Proven track record of building balanced ranges within Kidswear or similar departments
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Knowledge of trend forecasting, colour theory, and CAD approvals
Key Skills and Competencies
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Strong numerical and analytical abilities
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Excellent negotiation and communication skills
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A keen eye for fashion trends, colours, and styling that appeal to young girls
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Confidence in using Microsoft Office tools, particularly Excel
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Ability to create a shared vision and influence internal and external stakeholders
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Strong presentation skills and the ability to confidently pitch product ranges
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High level of organization, attention to detail, and time management
What the Company Offers
Ackermans offers a stimulating work environment where your creativity and commercial skills are nurtured. This role provides a platform to work on exciting seasonal ranges and contribute to a well-loved retail brand. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to travel, grow your buying career, and be part of a supportive and performance-driven team.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ackermans is committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse communities it serves. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified candidates will be considered in accordance with the company’s Employment Equity policy.
How to Apply
Ready to join a team that influences the fashion choices of millions? Apply now via the Ackermans career portal and upload your CV with supporting documents. Show us how your passion for fashion and retail excellence makes you the ideal fit!
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