Senior Buyer – Toys

About the role

Takealot.com, South Africa's leading online retailer, is seeking a Senior Buyer for the Toys category to join its Retail Team in Cape Town. The role leads procurement activities, drives growth, and mentors junior buyers while ensuring a reliable, cost‑effective supply chain.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive Toys strategy to increase sales, expand brand and supplier portfolios, and launch new product listings.
• Source innovative brands and suppliers, aligning with market trends and consumer demand.
• Negotiate contracts, improve trading terms, and manage supplier relationships against strict SLAs.
• Deliver on financial and service KPIs such as sales, margin, stock availability, and coverage.
• Create promotional programmes, secure attractive deals, and oversee site merchandising for the Toys department.
• Support operations by monitoring returns, handling product queries, and resolving customer complaints.
• Manage stock replenishment, ensure product availability, and maintain quality standards.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of retail, e‑commerce or commerce buying experience, preferably in Toys.
• National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Business Science, Commerce or related field (or 8 years equivalent experience).
• Strong commercial acumen with a solutions‑oriented, self‑motivated attitude.
• Excellent analytical and critical‑thinking abilities, capable of using data to drive decisions.
• Proven ability to build lasting supplier relationships and manage them according to SLAs.
• Comfortable with change, a collaborative team player, and passionate about e‑commerce.

Required skills

What we offer

• A dynamic, fast‑paced environment where teamwork and ownership are valued.
• Opportunities to lead strategic initiatives and mentor junior talent.
• Exposure to a leading online retail platform with significant growth potential.