Lead Buyer

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: LEAD BUYER

Location: Blantyre

OVERVIEW

A fast-growing retail company in Malawi invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates to fill the position of Lead Buyer in the Operations Department.

Reporting to: Group Operations Manager

Location: Blantyre

JOB PURPOSE

The Lead Buyer will drive the Company's buying function by developing buying strategies, sourcing products, negotiating with suppliers, managing product availability, and ensuring purchasing decisions deliver competitive pricing, quality, profitability, and customer value.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Buying Strategy & Commercial Planning

- Develop and execute buying plans aligned with sales targets, customer demand, stock requirements, and business objectives.

- Analyse sales trends, stock levels, margins, and market conditions to inform buying decisions.

- Identify new product opportunities based on customer needs, market trends, and competitor activity.

- Ensure buying decisions support sales growth, profitability, and effective stock management.

Supplier Sourcing & Negotiation

- Source and evaluate reliable suppliers and negotiate competitive prices, payment terms, delivery schedules, and quality standards.

- Develop and maintain strong strategic supplier relationships.

- Negotiate improved commercial terms and identify cost-saving opportunities.

- Monitor supplier performance and address issues relating to pricing, shortages, damages, returns, and delayed deliveries.

Purchase & Inventory Management

- Prepare, review, and approve purchase orders in line with delegated authority and Company procedures.

- Ensure products are purchased at competitive prices while maintaining required quality and profitability.

- Monitor stock availability and work with stores, warehouses, and merchandising teams to minimise stock-outs and overstocking.

- Review product performance and recommend range changes where required.

Market & Product Development

- Monitor market trends, competitor activity, customer preferences, and product developments.

- Identify opportunities for new products, alternative suppliers, and improved product ranges.

- Work closely with merchandising teams to optimise product assortment and category performance.

Procurement Governance & Reporting

- Ensure all purchases comply with Company policies, approved budgets, supplier procedures, and delegated authority.

- Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier files, pricing information, and procurement reports.

- Prepare reports on purchasing performance, supplier performance, cost savings, stock status, and key procurement risks.

- Coach and guide junior buyers or procurement staff where applicable.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

- Bachelor's Degree in Procurement, Purchasing and Supply, Business Management, Retail Management, or a related field.

- Professional procurement qualification is an added advantage.

- Minimum 10 years' experience in buying, procurement, merchandising, or supply chain operations, preferably in retail or FMCG.

- Proven experience in supplier sourcing, negotiation, commercial buying, and purchase order management.

- Strong knowledge of inventory management, pricing, margins, and product sourcing.

- Experience using ERP, retail, or inventory management systems.

- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should send their application letter, detailed Curriculum Vitae, and names of three traceable referees (preferably previous employers) to:

vacancies@renaissanceholdingsmw.net

Closing Date: Monday, 7th September 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.