Lindy Neagu
Buyer
Cape Town
Summary
Dynamic procurement professional with over 7 years of experience in the schoolwear market across South Africa and the broader African region, specializing in outerwear, socks, shoes, and knitwear. A strong passion for the industry drives a proven track record in sourcing quality materials, best fit garments and cultivating robust supplier relationships. Recognized for a collaborative approach that consistently delivers results in fast-paced environments, with expertise in market analysis and contract negotiation to ensure seamless supply chain operations and cost-effective purchasing strategies.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Buyer - School Outerwear, Underwear, Shoes and Workwear
PEPSTORES, Cape Town
07.2023 - Current
- Responsibilities include sourcing and building on my current ranges of School clothing, socks, shoes and workwear.
- Creating and managing quotes and Techpacks.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers, securing favorable terms that contributed to increased profitability and product quality
- Competitive shopping to monitor the retail environment and our position within the market.
- Managing my GP Study build growth to my departments.
- Maintaining garment consistency throughout each season working closely with my garment technologists.
- Analyzed market trends (In South Africa, Botswana and Namibia) to optimize product selection.
- Trained and mentored my assistants, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the team.
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop seasonal product lines, ensuring alignment with customer needs and brand vision.
Assistant Category Specialist - Ladies Jewellery
Westcor, Cape Town
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Curating and managing jewellery brands across multiple retailers both internationally (UK) and in South Africa.
- Developed comprehensive product assortments for ladies' jewellery, enhancing seasonal collections and driving customer engagement.
- Analyzed sales trends and consumer preferences to inform strategic decisions and optimize inventory management.
- Collaborated with vendors to ensure product quality and compliance with brand standards.
- Executed promotional strategies for new product launches, increasing brand visibility and market penetration.
School Wear Administrator
Pepstores Head Office, Cape Town
01.2017 - 07.2022
- Coordinated with suppliers to negotiate pricing and terms, enhancing cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality standards.
- Established quality control measures for incoming stock, reducing return rates and improving customer satisfaction.
- Managing seasonal costing and comparative pricing within the market.
Merchandise Assistant for Ladies and Men’s Accessories, School wear and Toys departments
Pepstores Head Office, Cape Town
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Promoted to School wear Buying Administrator.
- Sample management and assisted in school ranges.
- Conducted regular market research to assess competitor offerings, contributing to strategic planning and positioning of product lines.
Permanent Sales Assistant
Lulu Belle Jewelry Boutique, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
2011 - 2014
- Assisted customers in selecting jewelry, enhancing their shopping experience and promoting brand loyalty through personalized service.
- Maintained visual merchandising standards, ensuring an appealing display that attracted customers and increased sales opportunities.
Education
High school -
Northern Cape High school
Kimberley, Northern Cape01.2007
Bachelor's Degree - Consumer Science
University of the Free State
01.2010
Certificate - Retail Buying and Sourcing
UNISA
01.2015
Part Time Web Publishing Course - undefined
Friends of Design Academy
01.2016
Accredited Certificate in Management Program -
Henley Business School
Johannesburg, South Africa 04.2001 -
Skills
Extensive Experience in Microsoft Office (Excel/ Word and PowerPoint) and Outlook,
Timeline
Buyer - School Outerwear, Underwear, Shoes and Workwear
PEPSTORES, Cape Town
07.2023 - Current
Assistant Category Specialist - Ladies Jewellery
Westcor, Cape Town
08.2022 - 06.2023
School Wear Administrator
Pepstores Head Office, Cape Town
01.2017 - 07.2022
Merchandise Assistant for Ladies and Men’s Accessories, School wear and Toys departments
Pepstores Head Office, Cape Town
01.2014 - 01.2016
Accredited Certificate in Management Program -
Henley Business School
04.2001 -
Bachelor's Degree - Consumer Science
University of the Free State
Certificate - Retail Buying and Sourcing
UNISA
Part Time Web Publishing Course - undefined
Friends of Design Academy
Permanent Sales Assistant
Lulu Belle Jewelry Boutique, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
2011 - 2014
High school -
Northern Cape High school