Travels
Carlen Van Schalkwyk
Mid- Level Buyer| Accessories
Cape Town
Summary
I have a strong foundation in both creative and administrative roles within the retail fashion industry. With 7 years of experience as a product buyer, I bring specialized knowledge in fashion purchasing and sourcing. I have successfully negotiated favorable terms and optimized purchasing processes to improve operational efficiency. With a keen eye for detail, I combine creative and analytical skills, thriving as a collaborative team player.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
10
10
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Mid-level Buyer | Men’s Hats and Men’s Socks
House of James Douglas
01.2020 - Current
- As a product mid- level buyer overseeing men’s hats and socks, I am responsible for developing and maintaining strong vendor relationships aligned with business goals
- I ensure profitability targets are achieved through effective cost price negotiations and margin management during pre-purchase briefings
- I actively monitor trends, ensuring all orders are placed on time and deadlines are met
- I also contribute to the creation of concepts for new brands and innovative additions
- Additionally, I prepare detailed briefs for international suppliers, ensuring a transparent and fair tender process to deliver innovation and drive increased profitability across all five brands
Buyer Assistant | Older Boys Outerwear Apparel
Ackerman’s
10.2020 - Current
- I liaise with suppliers to ensure all purchase orders are on track, load them into the system, and capture all relevant information
- Additionally I track all orders, generate weekly sales reports, approve lap dips, organize meetings, manage filing
Junior Buyer | Jewellery Accessories
House of James Douglas
03.2018 - 09.2020
- I manage two branded jewelry accessories accounts, negotiating prices with factories and buyers while ensuring shipment dates are met through effective order tracking
- I create purchase orders and briefs in the system, forecast and research the latest seasonal trends, assist with setting up the showroom with samples, handling general administrative tasks
Diamond Tester and Quality Controller | Fine Jewelry
Silplat
12.2016 - 02.2017
- Arrange booking at dispatch center and ensuring jewelry was diamond tested and AQL before being dispatched
Jewellery Manufacturer
Smith Jewelry Anna Raimondo
06.2015 - 09.2016
- I work with various metals, including silver, brass, and copper, handling tasks such as polishing, casting, and gold plating
- Additionally, I oversee quality control and package the items
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
01.2010 - 11.2014
Matriculation - undefined
Good Hope Seminary Girls High School
01.2015 - 11.2019
Skills
- Negotiation
- Market trend analysis
- Inventory control
- Excellent communication
- Quality specifications adherence
- Teamwork and collaboration
Accomplishments
- Achiever of the year awards, Merchants, 10/01/21, Boy’s outerwear Apparel
- Bachelor’s degree in Jewellery design and Manufacturing, 11/30/14
Areas Managed
- Men’s Hats
- Men’s Socks
- Kids Appeal – T-shirts
- Costume Jewellery
- Fine Jewellery
- Diamond tester
Interests
Fashion
Hikes /Gym
Cooking
Timeline
Buyer Assistant | Older Boys Outerwear Apparel
Ackerman’s
10.2020 - Current
Mid-level Buyer | Men’s Hats and Men’s Socks
House of James Douglas
01.2020 - Current
Junior Buyer | Jewellery Accessories
House of James Douglas
03.2018 - 09.2020
Diamond Tester and Quality Controller | Fine Jewelry
Silplat
12.2016 - 02.2017
Jewellery Manufacturer
Smith Jewelry Anna Raimondo
06.2015 - 09.2016
Matriculation - undefined
Good Hope Seminary Girls High School
01.2015 - 11.2019
Bachelor’s Degree - Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
01.2010 - 11.2014
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