Buyer’s Assistant – Old Khaki
Cape Union Mart International
Cape Town, Western Cape
Permanent | Posted 29 April 2026
Job Overview
An exciting opportunity has opened at the Head Office of Cape Union Mart International within its well-known lifestyle brand Old Khaki for a Buyer’s Assistant.
This role is ideal for a highly organised and detail-oriented individual looking to build a career in retail buying, product development, and merchandising. The position involves supporting buyers across various product categories and ensuring the smooth coordination of administrative and operational processes within the buying cycle.
Role Purpose
The Buyer’s Assistant provides comprehensive administrative and operational support to the buying team. This includes managing product samples, maintaining accurate product data, coordinating supplier interactions, and assisting in the development and execution of product ranges.
Key Responsibilities
Administrative Support
- Provide full-time administrative assistance to buyers across all product categories
- Support key activities such as fit sessions, range builds, meetings, and product briefs
- Respond to email queries and coordinate communication between stakeholders
Sample Management
- Manage the sample room and ensure it remains organised and functional
- Request and follow up on product samples from suppliers
- Prepare samples for internal reviews and presentations
- Coordinate handover of samples to marketing and online photography teams
- Track sample movement and ensure accountability
Product Development & Tracking
- Monitor approvals and pre-production sample submissions
- Track progress of product development and follow up on outstanding items
- Assist in preparing for product reviews and range presentations
System & Data Management
- Update PLM (Product Lifecycle Management system) with accurate product information and imagery
- Maintain product lists, reports, and relevant documentation
- Load new product data onto PLM and update changes as required
- Manage product codes and ensure correct allocation
- Raise purchase orders (POs) and send them to suppliers
- Ensure all PO details are correctly captured and maintained
Supplier Coordination
- Assist with onboarding new suppliers onto internal systems
- Maintain communication with suppliers regarding orders, samples, and approvals
Marketing & Visual Support
- Coordinate sample preparation for online photography
- Assist in compiling information for marketing and visual merchandising briefs
- Prepare PowerPoint presentations and visual materials for internal meetings
- Support the creation of store reports and performance summaries
Additional Responsibilities
- Take ownership of sample sale preparation and setup
- Assist with various ad hoc tasks related to buying and merchandising
- Support team collaboration and ensure smooth workflow within the department
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
- Matric (Grade 12)
- Relevant tertiary qualification (advantageous)
Experience
- 1–2 years’ experience in a similar role (preferred)
Technical Skills
- Strong computer literacy
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Familiarity with PLM systems (advantageous)
Key Competencies
- Strong organisational and multitasking abilities
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Proactive mindset with the ability to take initiative
- Strong teamwork and relationship-building skills
- Willingness to learn and grow within the retail environment
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a motivated and detail-driven individual who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment. You should be comfortable managing multiple tasks, coordinating with different departments, and ensuring that all processes are completed efficiently and accurately.
This role is well-suited for someone looking to develop a long-term career in buying, merchandising, or retail operations.
Employment Equity
Cape Union Mart International is committed to transformation and diversity. Appointments will be made in line with the company’s Employment Equity plan, and preference may be given to candidates who contribute to team diversity.
Application Information
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
- Employment Type: Permanent
Interested candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
