Garney Claasen
Buying Manager
Bellville, 43 Heemstede Drive
Summary
I would like to apply for the post of Executive Buying Kidswear in order to show my interest.
I have over 16 years of progressive experience in retail fashion, and I am well-versed in corporate strategy implementation, procurement, and stakeholder communication. In light of my resume, I believe I meet the qualifications and possess the requisite abilities, making me a self-starter, leader, and—above all—a team player. To achieve the greatest amount of success, I think it's critical that staff members understand and support the company's vision and goals.
I work effectively in a team setting, have a strong sense of goal-orientation, and have the initiative to take the lead and finish the assigned duties.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education
Work History
Buying Manager, Infants & Girlswear
Ackermans
10.2023 - Current
- Contributed to sustainable practices within the organization by selecting environmentally friendly products whenever feasible without compromising quality or cost-efficiency standards.
- Analyzed spending patterns for cost reduction opportunities, leading to increased profitability for the organization.
- Improved supplier performance through regular evaluations and effective communication.
- Streamlined procurement processes by utilizing technology to automate manual tasks, increasing efficiency and accuracy.
- Ensured timely delivery of products by closely monitoring order status and proactively addressing potential issues.
- Collaborated with sales and marketing teams to identify new product opportunities based on market trends and customer needs.
- Completed monthly profit and loss performance reports.
- Devised and implemented strategies to optimize purchasing processes and reduce costs.
- Identified opportunities to reduce lead times and improve inventory management.
- Cultivated strong relationships with vendors to maintain and improve levels of customer service.
- Negotiated pricing and terms with vendors to secure best value for company.
- Reviewed proposals, qualified vendors, and recommended optimal suppliers.
- Developed strong relationships with key vendors, resulting in improved service levels and reduced lead times.
- Communicated with vendors regarding inventory needs and negotiated prices to maintain profit margins.
- Forecasted purchasing trends and improved merchandising strategies.
Head Of Buying, Boyswear
Woolworths
06.2021 - 05.2022
- Lead and develop a buying team to conceptualize and implement the merchandise strategy.
- Implemented best practices in supplier diversity, promoting an inclusive supply base that reflects organizational values.
- Reduced supply chain risks through thorough vendor assessments and continuous monitoring of performance metrics.
- Managed cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of products and services in line with project timelines.
- Streamlined procurement processes by implementing strategic sourcing and supplier management techniques.
- Assessed areas of service concern and developed improvement plans.
- Collaborated with internal stakeholders to create timely and accurate purchase orders.
- Completed monthly profit and loss performance reports.
- Developed and tracked metrics to measure supplier performance and cost savings.
- Identified opportunities to reduce lead times and improve inventory management.
- Communicated regularly with suppliers to uphold accountability for quality standards and timely delivery of goods.
- Cultivated strong relationships with vendors to maintain and improve levels of customer service.
- Negotiated pricing and terms with vendors to secure best value for company.
- Ensure successful execution of product/range strategy/in-store and online collaboration with relevant parties
- Apply strategic thinking in order to adapt and maximize all business opportunities
- Drive and develop the performance of the team with a view to optimize delivery and achievement of objectives
- Reporting on margin management.
Senior Buyer, Boyswear
Woolworths
01.2013 - 05.2021
- To drive and improve top lines sales, growth and sales margin rand’s to budget
- Gather competitor information and take out the key lessons learnt
- Accurately prepare and Compile Monday feedback based on the sales report
- Independently gather information for strategic intend and Line review presentations
- Plan promotional activity and ensure on time product handover
- Guide, assist and lead by example to fellow teammates
- Price Negotiation
- Managing my BA, Trainee’s and Job Shadowing and interns
- (To enable them to deliver their best and development
- Range Construction
- Collaboration with respective teams
- Strategic influence and forward thinking
- Post Seasonal and Line Review Analysis
- Building Supplier Relations and new product development and innovation.
Education
USB Programme (Senior Management Development Programme) -
Stellenbosch University
01.2022 - 04.2023
Finance for Non-Financial Managers (Short Course) - undefined
Twasa
01.2020 - undefined
USB Programme (Management Development Programme) - undefined
Stellenbosch University
01.2018 - undefined
Mini MBA Entrepreneurship Programme - undefined
Joseph Business School
01.2013 - undefined
Skills
Supplier Relationship Management
Timeline
Buying Manager, Infants & Girlswear
Ackermans
10.2023 - Current
USB Programme (Senior Management Development Programme) -
Stellenbosch University
01.2022 - 04.2023
Head Of Buying, Boyswear
Woolworths
06.2021 - 05.2022
Finance for Non-Financial Managers (Short Course) - undefined
Twasa
01.2020 - undefined
USB Programme (Management Development Programme) - undefined
Stellenbosch University
01.2018 - undefined
Senior Buyer, Boyswear
Woolworths
01.2013 - 05.2021
Mini MBA Entrepreneurship Programme - undefined
Joseph Business School
01.2013 - undefined
Additionalskillsachievements
- Woolworths Head Office – Chairman, Rewards & Recognition steering committee (Fashion/Home/Beauty), 2021, 2022
- I.T. Intellect Computer Training Solutions, Course Excel Intermediate and Advance, 2007
- His People Music school, Graduate, 2006
- Ravensmead High School Valedictory, Guess Speaker 2014
- Strong Negotiation skills and product development.
References
Unathi Sizani, Head Of Buying Markham, 0724903884
Additionalskillsachievements
- Woolworths Head Office – Chairman, Rewards & Recognition steering committee (Fashion/Home/Beauty), 2021, 2022
- I.T. Intellect Computer Training Solutions, Course Excel Intermediate and Advance, 2007
- His People Music school, Graduate, 2006
- Ravensmead High School Valedictory, Guess Speaker 2014
- Strong Negotiation skills and product development.
References
Unathi Sizani, Head Of Buying Markham, 0724903884
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