Buyer and Designer

Salary: Market related

Location: Sandton, Johannesburg

Job type: Permanent

Industry: Fashion Accessories / Retail

Reference Number: MJ.BD.CFO.08052025

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

Our client is within the fashion accessories / retail sector and is seeking a dynamic and trend-focused Buyer with a flair for intermediate Graphic Design. This is a hybrid role.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

This hybrid role combines product sourcing and range building with hands-on design responsibilities, including CAD creation, packaging layout, and marketing visuals. The successful candidate will play a critical role in bringing fast fashion concepts to life from product to shelf.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Buying & Product Development

• Identify and source fast-moving fashion accessories, gift items, and beauty tools aligned with seasonal trends and retailer strategies.
• Build product ranges tailored to different retail formats and target markets.
• Manage critical paths, pricing, MOQ negotiations, and order timelines with overseas suppliers.
• Monitor sales, react to performance, and initiate repeat or markdown strategies.

Design & Visual Communication

• Create clear and accurate product CADs and mock-ups for presentation and development.
• Design packaging artwork (hang tags, header cards, blister packs, etc.) in accordance with retailer guidelines and brand positioning.
• Assist in the design of marketing materials and look books for internal and client-facing use.
• Ensure consistency in branding, tone, and layout across product lines and categories.

Trend & Market Research

• Analyze local and international markets for trend direction and competitor activity.
• Interpret seasonal trends into commercial product ideas, including mood boards and colour palettes.
• Present concept and range boards to senior management and retail buyers.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Grade 12
• Related tertiary qualification in Buying / Procurement / Graphic Design will be beneficial

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• 3+ years experience in retail buying or product development in fashion (preferable)
• Intermediate graphic design experience in Adobe Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Strong commercial eye with a deep understanding of trend application in a mass retail context.
• Experience working with Chinese suppliers and managing import timelines and costing.
• Excellent presentation, planning, and communication skills.

Software Proficiency

• Adobe Illustrator Essential for product CADs and tech packs.
• Photoshop Retouching, marketing visuals, and mock-ups.
• InDesign Layouts for presentations, catalogues, and look books.
• Excel Budgeting, costing sheets, and order tracking.

Qualities

• Strong sense of urgency and attention to detail.
• Flexible and fast-thinking able to pivot based on trends or retailer needs.
• Creative and analytical mindset balancing design with commercial acumen.
• Team player who thrives in a deadline-driven, trend-conscious environment.

POPIA

By Submitting your CV, you confirm that:

1. We may retain your personal information in our database for future matching.
2. We may contact you when suitable opportunities arise.
3. The information you have provided to us is true, correct and up to date.

We endeavour to reply to each and every application, however, should you not hear back from us within 14 days please consider your application unsuccessful.