Pick n Pay Seeks a Dedicated Buyers Assistant

April 15, 2025 Job Host

Pick n Pay Seeks a Dedicated Buyers Assistant in Kenilworth, Cape Town

In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of South African retail, Pick n Pay stands as a beacon of quality, customer-centricity, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional value. With a rich heritage spanning decades, Pick n Pay has woven itself into the fabric of communities across the nation, becoming a trusted household name. At the heart of its success lies a dedicated team of passionate individuals who drive innovation, foster growth, and ensure that every customer experience is nothing short of remarkable.

Currently, an exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to join the Pick n Pay family as a Buyers Assistant. This full-time position, based in the vibrant Kenilworth area of Cape Town, offers a unique chance to contribute directly to the strategic planning and execution of category plans, working closely alongside experienced buyers to optimize the performance of designated product categories. If you possess a strong business acumen, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for the retail environment, this could be the perfect stepping stone to a rewarding and fulfilling career within one of South Africa’s leading retailers.

A Pivotal Role: Supporting Category Success and Driving Customer Satisfaction

As a Buyers Assistant at Pick n Pay, you will play a crucial role in providing comprehensive administrative and analytical support to the buying team. Your primary focus will be to assist the buyer in the intricate processes of compiling and executing category plans, ensuring alignment with overarching strategic objectives, format guidelines, margin targets, and assortment strategies. This involves a multifaceted approach, requiring a blend of analytical prowess, organizational skills, and effective communication abilities.

Your responsibilities will extend to the day-to-day operational aspects that underpin the success of the assigned categories. By being deeply customer-focused, you will contribute directly to optimizing key performance indicators such as sales and cash margins. This entails a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for improvement, analyzing performance data, and collaborating with various internal and external stakeholders to implement effective solutions.

Key Responsibilities: A Detailed Overview

The role of a Buyers Assistant at Pick n Pay is dynamic and encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, all geared towards supporting the efficient and effective management of product categories. These responsibilities include:

Statistical Reporting and Analysis: You will be tasked with collating and generating ad-hoc statistical and exception reports as required by the buyer. This involves extracting data from relevant systems, ensuring accuracy, and presenting it in a clear and concise manner. Furthermore, you will be expected to analyze these reports, identify any anomalies or trends, and propose appropriate actions to address them. This analytical capability is crucial for informed decision-making and proactive problem-solving within the buying team.
Vendor Onboarding and Documentation: The seamless onboarding of new vendors is essential for maintaining a diverse and competitive product assortment. You will play a vital role in this process by preparing vendor take-on forms and meticulously checking all accompanying supporting documentation to ensure compliance and accuracy. This attention to detail is critical for establishing strong and reliable relationships with suppliers.
Negotiation Support: You will have the valuable opportunity to attend buyer’s negotiations with suppliers, providing administrative support and gaining firsthand exposure to the intricacies of procurement. This experience will offer invaluable insights into negotiation strategies, supplier relationship management, and the dynamics of the retail buying process.
Contract and SLA Management: Ensuring the smooth execution of buying contracts and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with distribution centers (DCs) is paramount for efficient supply chain operations. You will be responsible for monitoring and managing the implementation of these agreements, ensuring adherence to terms and conditions, and addressing any potential issues that may arise.
Data Integrity and Alignment: Maintaining the accuracy and consistency of product data across various internal and external systems is crucial for operational efficiency and accurate reporting. You will be responsible for identifying and verifying Pick n Pay article data with external systems, ensuring master data alignment and resolving any discrepancies.
Aged and Exit Stock Management: Effectively managing aged and exit stock is essential for optimizing inventory levels and minimizing potential losses. You will be required to review and communicate aged and exit stock reports to the buyer, providing insights into slow-moving or discontinued products and supporting the development of strategies for their effective disposition.
Stakeholder Collaboration: The retail environment thrives on effective collaboration. You will be expected to interact with relevant internal stakeholders to gather and share crucial sales uplift information, including indicator performance and stock management insights. This collaborative approach ensures that buying decisions are informed by a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and operational realities.
Price Query Resolution: Addressing price queries promptly and accurately is vital for maintaining customer trust and ensuring pricing integrity. You will be responsible for investigating all price-related inquiries for the buyer, gathering necessary information, and facilitating timely resolutions.
Product Lifecycle Management Support: The journey of a product from its introduction to its eventual discontinuation requires careful management. You will provide support in ensuring that all product lifecycle activities are executed successfully, adhering to established timelines and procedures.
New Product Performance Monitoring: The introduction of new products is a key driver of growth and innovation. You will play a role in monitoring the performance of newly listed products, tracking their sales and customer reception, and providing relevant feedback to the buyer to inform future decisions.
Customer Care Support: Providing support to customer care teams is essential for addressing customer inquiries and resolving product-related issues. You will act as a point of contact for the customer care teams, providing them with the necessary information and support to effectively handle customer concerns.
Rebate Target Management: Achieving rebate targets is important for maximizing profitability. You will be responsible for generating and analyzing exception reports to ensure that rebate targets are met, identifying any potential shortfalls, and proposing corrective actions.
Electronic Article Take-on: The efficient creation of new articles within the electronic system is a fundamental aspect of inventory management. You will be responsible for requesting the creation of new articles through the electronic article take-on process, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.
Emergency Pricing Maintenance: In dynamic retail environments, the ability to implement emergency pricing adjustments is sometimes necessary. You will be responsible for maintaining emergency pricing information, ensuring that it is accurate and readily available when required.

Minimum Requirements: The Foundation for Success

To excel in the role of Buyers Assistant at Pick n Pay, certain foundational qualifications and experience are essential. These minimum requirements include:

Business-Related Degree: A relevant tertiary qualification in a business-related field, such as commerce, business administration, or retail management, provides a strong theoretical foundation for understanding the principles of retail operations, financial management, and supply chain dynamics.
1-2 Years Retail Experience: Practical experience within the retail sector is highly valued. This experience provides valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of a retail environment, customer behavior, and the challenges and opportunities inherent in the industry.
Proficiency in SAP and BW: Familiarity with SAP (Systems, Applications & Products in Data Processing) and BW (Business Warehouse) systems is crucial for accessing, extracting, and analyzing relevant data. Proficiency in these systems will enable you to generate reports, track performance, and contribute effectively to data-driven decision-making.
MS Office Suite Proficiency: Competence in Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Word is essential for day-to-day communication, documentation, and administrative tasks.
Good Excel Skills: Strong Excel skills are paramount for data manipulation, analysis, and the creation of insightful reports. The ability to work with spreadsheets, formulas, and data visualization tools is critical for this role.

Competencies: The Qualities of an Ideal Candidate

Beyond the minimum requirements, certain key competencies will contribute significantly to your success as a Buyers Assistant at Pick n Pay. These include:

Good Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills are essential for interacting with colleagues, suppliers, and other stakeholders. The ability to convey information clearly, concisely, and professionally is crucial for building strong working relationships.
Attention to Detail: The retail environment is characterized by a high volume of data and intricate processes. A meticulous attention to detail is crucial for ensuring accuracy in reporting, documentation, and data management.
Good Numerical Reasoning: The ability to interpret and analyze numerical data is fundamental to understanding category performance, identifying trends, and supporting informed decision-making.
Organized, Methodical, and Structured: The role requires managing multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously. Being organized, methodical, and structured in your approach will enable you to prioritize effectively, meet deadlines, and maintain efficiency.
Providing Service Excellence: A commitment to providing excellent service to both internal and external customers is a core value at Pick n Pay. This includes being responsive, helpful, and proactive in addressing the needs of stakeholders.
Ability to Plan and Co-ordinate: The ability to plan and coordinate tasks and projects realistically, taking into account timelines and resources, is essential for ensuring the smooth execution of category plans and related activities.
Task Commitment and Goal Directed: A strong sense of task commitment and a focus on achieving goals are crucial for driving performance and contributing to the overall success of the buying team.
Ability to Work Under Pressure: The retail environment can be fast-paced and demanding. The ability to remain calm and effective under pressure, while maintaining a sense of urgency, is highly valued.

A Culture of Growth and Opportunity

Pick n Pay is not just a retailer; it is a community of individuals who are passionate about what they do and driven by a shared vision of excellence. The company fosters a culture of growth and opportunity, providing employees with the resources and support they need to develop their skills and advance their careers. By joining the Pick n Pay family, you will become part of a dynamic and enthusiastic team where your contributions are valued and your potential is nurtured.

The Kenilworth location in Cape Town offers a vibrant and thriving environment, providing a fantastic backdrop for your professional journey. Cape Town, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic economy, offers a high quality of life and a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Seize the Opportunity: Apply Today

This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated and ambitious individual to embark on a rewarding career path within a leading South African retailer. If you possess the minimum requirements, embody the key competencies, and are eager to contribute to the success of Pick n Pay’s buying operations, we encourage you to apply.

The closing date for applications is May 21, 2025, leaving just five days to seize this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to join a company where people truly believe in what they’re doing and where “wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers” is not just a statement, but a reality.

To apply for the Buyers Assistant position at Pick n Pay in Kenilworth, Cape Town, please visit the Pick n Pay careers website and search for Job Requisition ID JR102949. Take the first step towards a fulfilling and dynamic career with a company that is deeply rooted in the South African community and committed to excellence. Discover who Pick n Pay is and become a part of their exciting journey.

Pick n Pay Seeks Dedicated Checkout Assistants in Woodmead

In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the South African retail sector, Pick n Pay stands as a beacon of quality, customer service, and community engagement. With a rich history spanning decades, this esteemed organization continues to provide essential goods and services to countless households across the nation. At the heart of Pick n Pay’s success lies its dedicated and customer-focused workforce, individuals who embody the company’s commitment to excellence.

Currently, an exciting opportunity has arisen for enthusiastic and detail-oriented individuals to join the Pick n Pay family as Checkout Assistants at their bustling Woodmead hypermarket in Gauteng. This full-time position offers a unique chance to become an integral part of the customer experience, ensuring smooth and efficient transactions while upholding Pick n Pay’s renowned standards of service.

A Pivotal Role in the Customer Journey

The role of a Checkout Assistant at Pick n Pay is far more than simply scanning items and processing payments. These individuals serve as the final point of contact for customers, leaving a lasting impression that can significantly influence their overall shopping experience. A friendly smile, efficient service, and a willingness to assist can transform a routine transaction into a positive and memorable interaction.

As a Checkout Assistant, you will be entrusted with a range of crucial responsibilities that contribute directly to the seamless operation of the store and the satisfaction of its clientele. These responsibilities encompass:

Efficient and Accurate Transaction Processing: Operating the checkout till with precision and speed, ensuring that all items are scanned correctly and that payments are processed accurately through various methods, including cash, card, and mobile payments.
Meticulous Packing of Goods: Carefully and thoughtfully packing customers’ purchases into bags and trolleys, adhering to established standards to prevent damage and ensure convenience for the customer. This includes separating items appropriately and considering weight distribution.
Maintaining a Clean and Organized Checkout Area: Taking proactive steps to keep the checkout area tidy and presentable at all times. This involves wiping down surfaces, ensuring adequate packing materials are available, and adhering to hygiene protocols.
Upholding Stringent Hygiene and Safety Standards: Adhering strictly to hygiene regulations and safety procedures in all aspects of the role, contributing to a clean and safe environment for both customers and colleagues. This may involve the use of cleaning materials and chemicals in a safe and responsible manner.
Embracing a Customer-Centric Approach: Demonstrating a genuine commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs. This involves actively listening to customers, responding to their inquiries and concerns with courtesy and efficiency, and striving to see situations from their perspective.
Effective Communication Skills: Communicating clearly and professionally with customers and colleagues alike. This includes attentive listening, providing appropriate and understandable responses, and maintaining a positive and helpful demeanor.
Demonstrating a Sense of Urgency: Approaching tasks with efficiency and a proactive mindset, constantly seeking to complete duties in a timely manner without compromising accuracy or customer service quality.
Maintaining High Standards in Routine Tasks: Performing repetitive tasks with consistent accuracy and attention to detail, ensuring that all transactions and packing procedures are carried out to the required standard.
Commitment to Self-Development: Actively seeking opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge, demonstrating a willingness to learn new procedures and improve performance in the role.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Being open to undertaking various tasks as required and adapting to different situations and operational needs within the store. This may include assisting in other areas when necessary.
Shift Work Availability: Possessing the flexibility to work various shifts, including days, evenings, weekends, and public holidays, to meet the operational demands of the store.
Thoroughness and Accuracy: Paying close attention to detail in all aspects of the role, ensuring accuracy in transactions and adherence to packing standards.

Essential Qualifications and Attributes

To excel in the role of a Checkout Assistant at Pick n Pay, candidates should possess the following essential qualifications and attributes:

Grade 12 Education: A completed Grade 12 (or equivalent) qualification is a prerequisite for this position, providing a foundational level of education.
Numeracy Proficiency: All applicants will be required to successfully complete numeracy screening assessments to demonstrate their ability to handle transactions and calculations accurately.
Effective Communication in English: The ability to communicate fluently and effectively in English is essential for interacting with customers and colleagues.
Customer-Focused Mindset: A genuine desire to provide excellent customer service and a demonstrated ability to understand and respond to customer needs.
Sense of Urgency: A proactive approach to tasks and the ability to work efficiently and effectively under pressure.
Ability to Handle Routine Work: The capacity to perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and consistency while maintaining a positive attitude.
Commitment to Self-Improvement: A willingness to learn and develop new skills and seek opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Flexibility and Multi-Skilled Approach: The adaptability to undertake various tasks and work in different areas of the store as required.
Excellent Communication Skills: The ability to listen attentively, respond appropriately, and communicate clearly and professionally.
Availability for Shift Work: The willingness and ability to work various shifts, including days, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Thoroughness and Accuracy: A meticulous approach to tasks with a strong focus on detail and accuracy.
Proximity to Woodmead: Candidates must reside in close proximity to the Pick n Pay Woodmead Hypermarket to ensure convenient and reliable attendance.

A Culture of Growth and Opportunity

Pick n Pay is not just a place to work; it’s a place to grow. The company is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where employees are valued, recognized, and provided with opportunities for development. As a Checkout Assistant, you will be part of a team that believes in collaboration, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence.

While the primary focus of this role is on checkout duties, Pick n Pay encourages employees to broaden their skills and explore potential career pathways within the organization. Demonstrating dedication, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn can open doors to various opportunities for advancement within different departments and roles.

Your Next Step: Apply Today!

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a leading retail brand and embark on a fulfilling career journey. If you are a motivated, customer-focused individual with a strong work ethic and a passion for providing excellent service, Pick n Pay invites you to apply for the position of Checkout Assistant at their Woodmead Hypermarket.

Please note that the application deadline is approaching rapidly, with the closing date set for May 16, 2025, leaving only a few hours to submit your application.

To seize this exciting opportunity, interested candidates are encouraged to apply promptly through the designated Pick n Pay recruitment channels. Ensure that your application clearly highlights your relevant skills, experience, and your commitment to the values of customer service and teamwork.

Don’t miss your chance to become a valued member of the Pick n Pay family and contribute to the success of one of South Africa’s most respected retail organizations. Apply today and take the first step towards a rewarding career!

Important Considerations:

Transferability: Please note that the successful candidate may be required to transfer between different Pick n Pay store locations as operational needs dictate.
Other Duties: The incumbent may also be expected to perform other duties as assigned from time to time, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to support the team.

Pick n Pay is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all suitably qualified individuals.

Pick n Pay Seeks a Dedicated Buyers Assistant

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