Jobs at Ares Holdings

Job Summary:

As a VANS Visual Merchandiser, your primary responsibility is to create visually appealing and engaging displays in VANS retail stores or other designated spaces. Your main goal is to attract customers and drive sales by presenting VANS products in an attractive and organized manner.

Key Responsibilities:

• Display Design and Layout: You will be responsible for planning and executing the layout and design of VANS product displays in accordance with brand guidelines and seasonal themes. This involves arranging merchandise, signage, props, and graphics in an aesthetically pleasing and strategic manner.
• Product Presentation: You will ensure that VANS products are showcased effectively to maximize their visual impact. This includes arranging products by category, style, colour, or other criteria to create visually appealing presentations. You will also be responsible for properly tagging and pricing merchandise.
• Store Communication: Collaborating with store management and staff is crucial in your role. You will work closely with store managers and sales associates to understand product priorities and sales goals, as well as provide them with guidance on visual merchandising standards and updates.
• Window Displays: Creating eye-catching window displays that capture the attention of passers-by is a key aspect of your role. You will design and install window displays that effectively promote VANS products and align with current promotions or campaigns.
• Visual Standards: You will ensure that all VANS visual merchandising standards are consistently upheld in each store. This includes monitoring the implementation of visual guidelines, ensuring proper signage placement, and maintaining a clean and organized visual presentation throughout the store.
• Seasonal and Promotional Changes: As a VANS Visual Merchandiser, you will be responsible for updating displays to reflect seasonal changes, new product launches, and promotional events. This may involve collaborating with marketing teams to incorporate campaign materials and messaging into the visual merchandising displays.
• Inventory Management: While not the primary focus of your role, you may assist in monitoring inventory levels and coordinating with store management to ensure adequate stock levels for visual merchandising purposes.
• Training and Support: You may be responsible for providing training and support to store staff on visual merchandising techniques, standards, and product knowledge to ensure consistent execution across all stores.

To excel in this role, you should have a strong sense of visual aesthetics, creativity, and an understanding of the VANS brand and target audience. Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential, as you will be working closely with store teams. Additionally, staying updated on the latest trends in visual merchandising and retail design can help you bring fresh ideas to the role.

AD Hoc duties:

• Respond to emails and office correspondence
• Keep work area clean and tidy
• Support the mission, vision and core values of the company
• Meet prescribed deadlines and targets
• Professional interaction and liaison with customers, suppliers and employees at all times
• Any other reasonable and lawful ad hoc tasks or duties that may be required from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12
• Previous experience in a similar role or an internship is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suite.
• Basic understanding of analytics and reporting tools is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating cross-functionally.
• Creative mindset with the ability to contribute ideas and think outside the box.
• Passion for the VANS brand and an understanding of its target audience and culture.

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Job Summary:

As the VANS Action Sports Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and driving the strategic development and execution of action sports initiatives for the VANS brand. This role requires a deep understanding and passion for action sports, including skateboarding, surfing and BMX, as well as knowledge of the action sports industry landscape. You will collaborate with internal teams, athletes, partners, and industry influencers to develop and implement innovative programs and events that strengthen the VANS brand within the action sports community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Action Sports Strategy: Develop and execute comprehensive action sports strategies that align with the VANS brand vision and objectives, ensuring a strong presence and engagement within the action sports community.
• Athlete and Team Management: Identify and recruit talented athletes and action sports teams to represent the VANS brand. Build and maintain relationships with sponsored athletes, providing support, and fostering brand loyalty.
• Event Planning and Execution: Conceptualize, plan, and execute action sports events, competitions, and activations that showcase the VANS brand and resonate with the action sports community. Coordinate logistics, budgets, sponsorship activations, and participant experiences.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Identify and pursue strategic partnerships and collaborations with key industry influencers, organizations, and brands to enhance the VANS brand presence in the action sports space.
• Content Creation: Work closely with the marketing and creative teams to develop action sports-focused content, including videos, photos, and social media campaigns, that amplifies the brand's connection to action sports and engages the target audience.
• Brand Ambassador Programs: Develop and manage brand ambassador programs, fostering relationships with influential figures in the action sports community who align with the VANS brand values.
• Trend Analysis: Stay abreast of the latest trends, innovations, and developments in the action sports industry, identifying opportunities to leverage for brand initiatives and partnerships.
• Budget Management: Manage the action sports budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximizing return on investment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing, product, and retail, to align action sports initiatives with broader brand strategies and ensure a cohesive brand experience across all touchpoints.
• Measurement and Reporting: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to evaluate the success of action sports programs and events. Provide regular reports on performance and make data-driven recommendations for future improvements.

AD Hoc duties:

• Respond to emails and office correspondence
• Keep work area clean and tidy
• Support the mission, vision and core values of the company
• Meet prescribed deadlines and targets
• Professional interaction and liaison with customers, suppliers and employees at all times
• Any other reasonable and lawful ad hoc tasks or duties that may be required from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12
• Post Graduate Degree / Diploma.
• 3 – 5 Years of experience in action sports marketing management, brand marketing, or a related role, with a focus on skateboarding, surfing or BMX.
• Deep understanding and passion for action sports, with knowledge of the industry, athletes, events, and trends.
• Proven experience in planning and executing action sports events and activations, including athlete management and logistics coordination.
• Strong network and relationships within the action sports community, including athletes, influencers, and industry partners.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Creative thinking and ability to develop innovative action sports programs and partnerships that align with the VANS brand.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey the brand's message and value to athletes, partners, and stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to measure and analyse data to evaluate the success of action sports initiatives and make data-driven recommendations.
• Budget management experience, with the ability to efficiently allocate resources and maximize ROI.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating cross-functionally and leading a team.
• Willingness to travel frequently to attend events, competitions, and industry conferences.

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As the Vans Trade Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing trade marketing strategies and programs to drive sales and brand awareness within the retail and wholesale channels. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, and product, to develop and execute initiatives that support the overall brand and business objectives. This role requires a strong understanding of the retail landscape, consumer behaviour, and effective marketing strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Trade Marketing Strategy: Develop and execute comprehensive trade marketing strategies that align with the overall brand vision and business objectives. Identify key market opportunities and develop plans to maximize sales and brand presence within the retail and wholesale channels.
• Retailer Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with retail partners, ensuring strong collaboration and support for brand initiatives. Develop joint marketing programs, promotions, and events to drive sales and enhance the Vans brand within partner stores.
• Point of Sale (POS) Materials: Work closely with the EMEA creative team to develop compelling and effective POS materials, including signage, displays, and merchandising guidelines, that align with brand standards and drive consumer engagement and conversion in-store.
• Retail Training and Education: Develop and implement training programs and tools for retail staff to enhance product knowledge, brand messaging, and sales techniques. Conduct training sessions and provide ongoing support to ensure consistent brand representation at the retail level.
• Consumer Promotions: Plan and execute consumer promotions and incentives to drive traffic, conversion, and loyalty within the retail and wholesale channels. Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop impactful promotions and track their effectiveness.
• Market Analysis: Conduct regular market analysis to monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and consumer insights. Utilize data and market research to identify opportunities and make recommendations for trade marketing strategies and programs.
• Trade Shows and Events: Plan and coordinate trade shows, industry events, and sales meetings. Manage logistics, booth setup, and promotional materials to ensure impactful brand representation and engagement with key stakeholders.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the trade marketing budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximum return on investment. Track and report on budget utilization and effectiveness of trade marketing initiatives.
• Collaboration with Cross-functional Teams: Work closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to ensure alignment and integration of trade marketing initiatives with broader brand strategies. Collaborate on product launches, seasonal campaigns, and promotional activities.
• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of professionals, providing guidance, support, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

1. Develop and manage the training schedule of VM’s to support general brand excellence alongside campaign launches and effective technical product training.

AD Hoc duties:

• Respond to emails and office correspondence
• Keep work area clean and tidy
• Support the mission, vision and core values of the company
• Meet prescribed deadlines and targets
• Professional interaction and liaison with customers, suppliers and employees at all times
• Any other reasonable and lawful ad hoc tasks or duties that may be required from time to time.

Requirements:

• Grade 12
• Post Graduate Degree / Diploma.
• 3 – 5 Years of experience in trade marketing, retail marketing, or a similar role, preferably within the fashion or consumer goods industry.
• Strong understanding of the retail landscape, consumer behaviour, and marketing strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with retail partners and internal stakeholders.
• Proven experience in developing and executing trade marketing strategies and programs that drive sales and brand awareness.
• Familiarity with point-of-sale materials development and retail visual merchandising principles.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to analyse market data, identify trends, and make data-driven recommendations.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Budget management experience, with the ability to efficiently allocate resources and maximize ROI.
• Leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and data analysis tools.
• Passion for the Vans brand and an understanding of its target audience and culture

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Job Summary:

As a VANS Brand Communications and Activation's Assistant, you will provide essential support to the Brand Communications and Activation's Manager in executing integrated communication strategies and activation's that enhance the VANS brand presence and engage target audiences. You will assist in coordinating brand communications, public relations, events, partnerships, and collaborations. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a passion for effective brand communication and event management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Content Creation: Assist in developing engaging brand narratives and content for various communication channels, including social media, blogs, press releases, and internal communications. Collaborate with the creative team to ensure content is aligned with the brand's voice and guidelines.
• Public Relations Support: Assist in building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, influencers, and industry partners. Support in the coordination of media inquiries, sample requests, and press releases distribution.
• Event Support: Assist in the planning and execution of brand events, product launches, and activations. Coordinate logistics, handle guest lists, and assist with on-site event management.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Support in identifying and researching potential strategic partnerships and collaborations. Assist in coordinating partnerships, collaborations, and related activations.
• Administrative Tasks: Provide general administrative support to the Brand Communications and Activations Manager, including scheduling meetings, managing calendars, preparing presentations, and maintaining relevant documentation.
• Event Coordination: Assist in coordinating event logistics, including venue selection, vendor management, budget tracking, and event promotion.
• Content and Social Media Management: Support in managing social media platforms, scheduling posts, and monitoring engagement. Assist in curating and creating content for social media channels.
• Reporting and Analysis: Assist in gathering and analysing data to evaluate the effectiveness of brand communication initiatives and activations. Support in preparing reports to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with various internal teams, such as marketing, creative, and product, to ensure alignment and integration of brand communication initiatives with broader brand strategies.
• Stay Updated: Stay informed about the latest industry trends, digital media advancements, and emerging communication platforms to bring fresh ideas and innovation to the team.

AD Hoc duties:

• Respond to emails and office correspondence
• Keep work area clean and tidy
• Support the mission, vision and core values of the company
• Meet prescribed deadlines and targets
• Professional interaction and liaison with customers, suppliers and employees at all times
• Any other reasonable and lawful ad hoc tasks or duties that may be required from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12
• Previous experience in a similar role or internship in brand communications, public relations, event management, or marketing is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and content management systems.
• Basic understanding of public relations and media relations principles.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suite.
• Basic understanding of analytics and reporting tools is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating cross-functionally.
• Creative mindset with the ability to contribute ideas and think outside the box.
• Passion for the VANS brand and an understanding of its target audience and culture.

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Job Summary:

Responsible for building and optimising prescribed account customer relationships within a designated area (Inland), with the goal of achieving sales and profit targets through effective planning, management and execution.

SALES MANAGEMENT:

• Responsible for achieving monthly, quarterly and annual sales targets by converting order books
• Responsible for the creation of budgets and forecasts, door growth targets and account plans for the wholesale channel within prescribed area.
• Management of sales pipeline and white space document to be constantly reviewed to ascertain market potential
• Conduct seasonal account reviews
• Work closely with marketing to identify trade marketing opportunities and incorporate into account plans
• Conduct store visits - own, customer and competitor - to review trends, customer specific issues and competitor activities to help formulate strategic plans and be proactive in reacting to market conditions
• Conduct seasonal sell-in meetings with account base to showcase new collections

STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT:

• Build trust and effective relationships with key stakeholders
• Provide account stakeholders with recommendations on product mix and performance of the brand through analysis of sales reports
• Proactively manage stakeholders against agreed SLA's

SUPPLY CHAIN, OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT & CUSTOMER SERVICE:

Build strong relationships with key internal stakeholders including supply chain, operations and customer service teams to ensure clear communication and understanding as it relates to;

• Open order reports
• Order deadlines
• Order book conversion
• Communication with local logistics on product movement, early and late
• Customer VAS requirements
• ATS reports

REPORTING:

• Weekly and monthly reporting on the wholesale sales forecast
• Seasonal analysis by account
• Quarterly business review reporting
• Request regular sell out from key accounts within your area.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant tertiary qualification (Sales and Marketing)
• At least 3 years experience in a similar role
• Advanced Microsoft Office ability
• SAP experience advantageous
• A strong understanding of lifestyle/ action sports brands within the retail, wholesale and e-commerce sector is advantageous.
• Business and commercial acumen
• Ability to build strong and lasting relationships
• Ability to work independently, be a self -starter and manage your time efficiently.
• Budgeting and reporting skills

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VANS is looking for an experienced and enthusiastic E-Commerce Manager. The successful candidate will be required to drive VANS e-Commerce business and growth and oversee all strategic and operational functions within this area.

The role is responsible for collaborating with cross-functional partners to manage all aspects of the eCommerce business including, content strategy and development, promotional campaigns and other online marketing, website design, customer service, logistics, web analytics and web technologies.
 

Responsibilities:

E-commerce Strategy:

• In line with the regional and global directives, define, develop and execute on annual/long-term strategy for the department
• Generate and implement new sales and marketing initiatives to increase eCommerce sales and profitability
• Execute seasonal strategies to support and meet revenue and margin targets
• Determine specific product category opportunities to maximise growth areas
• Develop and implement initiatives to ensure that the site delivers the best shopping experience for our customers
• Develop and continuously optimise the e-commerce marketing

Operational Partnerships

• Planning: ensure pricing is competitive

ensure activations and buys are representative for growth

• Supply Chain: ensure accurate and timely ordering and delivery of product into the market

ensure effective freight review and digital warehouse transformation planning

• Global Digital: support key infrastructure projects (SEO, PWA, SFCC)

support global Ecomm direction

• Merchandising: ensure assortment is well matched for online platform

   Ensure seasonal processes are in place

• Local/EU and Global Marketing: align on performance marketing metrics and tactics and develop a digital model
• Retail: Define Omni DTC initiatives and align on marketing calendar
• Supply Chain and Marketing: Align on role of channels, dropshipment strategy and promotional calendar

E-Commerce Reporting and Analytics:

• Analysis and reporting of the e-commerce related performance
• Monitoring and evaluation of users' behaviour to derive suggestions for improvements
• Meet all global reporting requirements (KPI, Data and Performance) as and when needed

Lead:

• Lead and manage the team responsible for uploading all content, product, and promotions
• Manage the online fulfilment team on a day-to-day basis
• Manage the relationship with our external and internal development and local and global digital and marketing teams
• Manage recruiting, onboarding, mentoring and succession within the department
• Manage the logistics relationships to ensure exceptional service for our customers

Requirements:

• Degree in e-Commerce, Retail, Business or any other related field
• Strategic agility and able to articulate the vision and purpose
• Well-developed understanding of data analysis as well as website metrics
• 3+ years' management experience in an e-commerce trading/retail environment
• Strong understanding of website design, development, and tracking
• Exercises sound judgment based on analysis, experience and fit for purpose
• Experience in online planning or buying
• Ability to interpret web analytics, tracking, and reporting, and knowledge on how to improve these metrics
• Proven ability to maintain tight budget controls
• Ability and experience in managing a dynamic, diverse and decentralised team
• Drives collaboration and promotes teamwork
• MS Office proficiency
• Valid driver’s license and own car essential

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Job Summary

To lead and develop a high performance, customer-centric team that focuses on building and optimising customer relationships at all levels with the goal of achieving sales and profit targets through effective planning, management and execution. 

National Sales & Account Management

• Responsible for the creation of budgets and forecasts for the Wholesale business within territory and by Key Accounts, SIS, elite accounts, speciality and independent
• Constant input of sales pipeline (Matrix) document to be constantly reviewed to ascertain market potential
• Along with merchandising, keep product line tight and efficient, ensuring responsible segmentation by end-use and G.B.B tiering with full head to toe + accessories buy-in per account
• Support trade marketing with a collaborative effort and effective communication of vision and strategies always to drive VM excellence, training, in-stock guidance per customer, potential up selling and relationship development
• Conduct store visits - own, customer and competitor - to review trends, customer specific issues and competitor activities to help formulate strategic plans and be proactive in reacting to market conditions
• Responsible for building key account plans for all major accounts
• Foster good relationships with all customers, assisting them with growth strategies and suggestions for expansion, planning and in stock programs within their business
• Foster on-going professional relationships with existing customers and sales force, creating a culture of consultative selling, monitoring sell through data, replenishment suggestions to maximise sales, promotion suggestions, seasonal planning
• Ensure customers meet order commitments
• Deal promptly and creatively with escalated queries and complaints from customers
• Attend international and National sales conferences and product meetings

Brand Management

• Together with marketing, ensure the brand is positioned in accordance with global strategies
• Seek out and manage marketing opportunities within the region
• Ensure the successful implementation of the national campaigns
• Work with marketing to maximise and leverage brand opportunities
• With the assistance of Vans visual merchandising, ensure the brand is presented efficiently and in an appealing way throughout the country

Requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Sales and Marketing
• Minimum 8 years' working experience within a South African Retail business or similar sales environment
• MS Office proficiency
• Ability to travel as and when necessary (local and international)
• Valid driver's license and own car essential
• Strong customer first centric focus and flexibility in approach
• Ability to work under pressure
• Driven to set and achieve ambitious KPIs
• A strong understanding of brands and the sports apparel and footwear industry
• Good time management and reliable
• Proven ability to maintain tight budget controls
• Resilience, astuteness and exceptional negotiation skills
• Ability and experience in managing a dynamic, diverse and decentralised team
• Proactive

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Job Summary:

As the VANS Brand Communications and Activations Manager, you will play a key role in developing and executing integrated communication strategies and activations to enhance the VANS brand presence and engage with target audiences. You will be responsible for overseeing brand communications, public relations, events, partnerships, and collaborations, ensuring consistency and alignment with the brand's values and objectives. This role requires a strong understanding of brand positioning, storytelling, event management, and strategic partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Brand Strategy: Develop and execute comprehensive brand communication strategies and activations that align with the overall brand vision and objectives.
• Public Relations: Manage and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and industry partners to secure media coverage and generate positive brand exposure.
• Storytelling: Develop compelling brand narratives and content across various channels to resonate with the target audience and build brand loyalty.
• Event Planning and Execution: Conceptualize, plan, and execute brand events, product launches, and activations that showcase the VANS brand and engage the target audience. Coordinate logistics, budgets, partnerships, and participant experiences.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Identify and pursue strategic partnerships and collaborations with key industry influencers, organizations, and brands to enhance the VANS brand presence and reach new audiences.
• Integrated Campaigns: Collaborate with marketing, creative, and digital teams to develop and execute integrated campaigns that align with brand communication strategies and activations.
• Media Planning: Work closely with marketing and media teams to develop media plans and ensure that brand communication activities are effectively integrated across traditional and digital platforms.
• Budget Management: Manage the brand communications and activations budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximizing ROI.
• Measurement and Analysis: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of brand communication initiatives and activations, using data and analytics to measure impact and make data-driven recommendations for future improvements.
• Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of communication and activation professionals, providing guidance, support, and fostering a collaborative work environment.

AD Hoc duties:

• Respond to emails and office correspondence
• Keep work area clean and tidy
• Support the mission, vision and core values of the company
• Meet prescribed deadlines and targets
• Professional interaction and liaison with customers, suppliers and employees at all times
• Any other reasonable and lawful ad hoc tasks or duties that may be required from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12
• 3 – 5 Years of experience in brand communications, public relations, event management, or a similar role, preferably within the fashion or lifestyle industry.
• Strong understanding of brand positioning, storytelling, and communication strategies.
• Proven experience in planning and executing events, product launches, and brand activations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and adapt messages for different channels and audiences.
• Experience in media relations, including building relationships with journalists, influencers, and industry partners.
• Familiarity with strategic partnerships and collaborations, and the ability to identify and pursue opportunities.
• Knowledge of traditional and digital media platforms and the ability to develop integrated communication plans.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to measure and analyse data to drive insights and make data-driven recommendations.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Budget management experience, with the ability to efficiently allocate resources and maximize ROI.
• Leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Passion for the VANS brand and an understanding of its target audience and culture

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Summary

The role is responsible for choosing footwear that will be sold in South Africa. With a given budget, the buyer is tasked with picking products for the stores based on the demand and the trends in the industry. The incumbent is also required to work closely with the sales team to select a segmented range by category, by division and by gender for all accounts.        

Buying Strategy

• Attend Vans seasonal sales meetings and other relevant travel requirements.  Select from the pre-existing global/EMEA range, making intuitive selections that suit the SA customer, so optimums are achieved alongside other developing.
• Must be a footwear subject matter expert in terms of product features, specifications and categorisation.
• Establish shipment plan and identify consolidation opportunities for cost reduction based on OOR reconciliation
• Understand the current wholesale and retail strategy and make recommendations in developing product strategies and range building in line with the business vision 
• Maintain strong awareness of the commercial potential of product in the market from a price point of view and assist in developing appropriate pricing structures
• Assist Planner in identifying sales patterns for future seasons and place forecasts and orders for the SA market

Operational Partnerships

• Manage the delivery of samples to Head Office as necessary maintaining responsibility for this inventory until signed over to the relevant merchant
• Work with marketing, sales and Planner to set up promotions to drive underperformers to clear stock.
• Conduct sell-ins promoting new, fresh product to Retail and Wholesale clients
• With the sales and marketing functions, manage the full GTM sales process from planning, co-ordinating and developing sales tools that directly support the sell-in process for both existing and new accounts (catalogues, pricelist lists, order forms, delivery dates, showroom prep, catering, trade marketing support)
• Review previous season merchandise with Planner to identify possible reasons for success or non-performance and note for future reference
• Ensure optimal samples are selected that are applicable to the South African market.
• Ensure that buy-plans are well detailed and clearly understood by team members and relevant stakeholders
• Meet range development deadlines in order to ensure supplier deadlines are met
• Manage Stock levels in line with orders
• Assist Retail Ops team in the opening of new Brand House stores with specific focus on stock planning
• Ensure along with Visual Merchandiser and Retail manager that product is displayed in all stores according to Vans Standards.
• Manage the reconciliation of OOR against purchase order identifying irregularities and highlighting this to the Planners
• Ensure accurate requested ship dates to ease cash flow pressures

Reporting & Analytics

• Develop and continually evaluate all reports in order to monitor stock arrival in SA, sales, history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory etc.
• Report on inventory tracker and forecasting report
• Feedback market trend information to the Vans team and suggest best merchandising practice to maximise turnover.
• Assist in the mapping and architecture of the IT system for order management, logistical support, buying, point of sale, order tracking and Bl tools etc.
• Develop and continually evaluate all reports in order to establish sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans etc.
• Review relevant historical information and make recommendations to management and Wholesale customers for product segmentation in stores
• Build and manage a consumption tool to react early to plan across channels

Experience & qualifications

• Relevant Degree (Bcom) or related Diploma in Retail Management/Planning/Supply Chain/Merchandise Management
• Driver’s license essential
• Experience and understanding of import merchandising.
• A working knowledge of the latest Microsoft packages (Excel & PowerPoint knowledge is essential).
• In depth knowledge of technical footwear and brands
• Have a high degree of decision-making ability and be service orientated.
• Be assertive and communicate at all levels.
• Be a team player.
• A proven solid track record in buying
• An interest in and knowledge of trends
• Excellent planning, organising and interpersonal skills
• 3-5 year’s experience in similar role/ management experience
• Min 3 year’s experience in retail buying preferably as a footwear buyer
• Knowledge of ERP system

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Summary

This position watches consumer patterns, such as seasonal purchasing and presents their findings to the planning and management teams. Additionally, the Assistant Buyer for Apparel and Accessories offers insight on ways to alter merchandise assortments in order to increase revenue and minimise loss. This is done by analysing sales data (macro & micro consumer trends and spending), frequent reporting cadence, planning tools management and highlighting inventory areas which need addressing. 

Analytical skills:

• Monitor sales data, by price, category, trend, geography, consumer, etc., post season, in season and pre-season
• Identify and understand purchasing trends and make recommendations
• Monitoring the timing and scope of seasonal changes
• Make recommendations and assist with merchandising
• Develop supply strategies that will minimize stock outs while maximising inventory turns
• Develop and continuously evaluate all reports from purchase orders to sales history, seasonal sales analysis, aged inventory & liquidation plans
• Communicating with Vans stores where necessary
• Monitoring Vans in season trade and react accordingly
• Set up seasonal line lists per Vans store
• Analyse Market Place sales and assist in ensuring the right product is available at the right time.

Inventory Management:

• Understand and maintain desired inventory levels, inventory turns, OTB and assortments.
• Ensure plans are in place to meet consumer trends, marketing launches, promotional activation, etc.
• Oversee shipping, receiving and warehousing of merchandise
• Develop and maintain an integrated planning process that deals with customer demand, upselling opportunities in high demand end uses, EOL & stock to management in accordance with budgeted guidance (OTB), to consume against future seasons.
• Develop and maintain inventory reporting (achievement to target, margins, inventory health, shipping schedule vs SAP, etc.)
• Placing Purchase Orders (pre & in season)
• Order Tracking and reporting
• GTM, SKU, Pricing and Order form setup
• Develop and maintain an accurate ATS (Available to Sell) to be refreshed and published on a frequent cadence
• Assist with pricing structure for staff purchases and sample sales when necessary

Reporting:

• Shipping schedule
• Inbound containers
• Location reviews
• Inventory tracking tool
• Retail top seller
• Weekly sales
• Return managements
• ATS
• Any reporting pack agreed to with management or to fulfil your role’s and responsibilities

General:

• Maintaining a professional image whilst in the office and travelling
• Assist with any adhoc duties

Experience & qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification
• 1-2 years’ experience in a similar role
• Stores experience will be an advantage
• Understanding of lifestyle apparel and accessories and the related market opportunities within retail, wholesale and ecommerce sector

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This position will need to provide excellent customer service, capturing orders, resolving telephonic and email queries, exploring opportunities to increase sales and tracking orders with the aim of developing new and maintaining good relationships customers.

Online Order Process:

• Manage online, telephonic and email queries regarding customer orders
• Assist customers on processing product orders
• Banking details
• Follow up on parcels with warehouse and couriers
• Ensure all open orders are closed
• Meet deadlines and targets

Exchanges and returns:

• Assist customers with return requests and exchanges on all customer platforms with sound advise on alternative options
• Processing returns for exchanges, replacements and refunds on product bought by customers
• Follow up on replacement dispatchments with warehouse and couriers
• Arrange for collections on return requests and ensure that the process is completed within relevant timeframes

Customer Service:

• Manage online (Facebook, twitter, live chat, ticketing system, HelloPeter), telephonic and email enquiries
• Keep up to date with product information to resolve customer queries with detailed product information
• Investigate all customer complaints, action resolutions or feedback to relevant departments
• Generate repeat business through successful client follow-up and great customer service
• Discuss, analyse and resolve usability issues
• Respond to customer emails and office correspondence

Company Values:

• Delightfully Democratic
• People-Purposed Design
• Inherent Simplicity
• Imaginative Innovation
• Unapologetic Optimism
• Confidently Comfortable

General:

• Provide support to the team by ensuring all sales and service objectives
• Keep area clean and tidy
• Any other reasonable adhoc duties that may be required

Education and experience:

• Grade 12
• At least 2 years’ working experience within a South African retail or similar Customer Service environment
• Experience with Zendesk ticketing advantageous
• Experience working with 3rd party tools such as payment gateways and courier portals
• Experience in using social media platforms, online platforms and live chat platforms
• Understanding of Ecommerce environment
• Understanding of Website back end portal