Procurement Specialist

Position Overview:

The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring sports merchandise, equipment, apparel, and accessories for our retail chain. The role ensures optimal supplier partnerships, cost efficiency, product availability, and alignment with business objectives to maximize profitability and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Procurement & Sourcing

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers for sports goods, apparel, footwear, and accessories.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, contracts, and delivery schedules to optimize cost and margin.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliability, quality, and timely availability.
• Explore local and international sourcing opportunities for exclusive and trending sports products.

2. Vendor Management

• Track vendor performance through key metrics (on-time delivery, quality compliance, cost variance).
• Manage supplier database, contracts, and periodic reviews.
• Resolve vendor disputes, delays, or quality issues in coordination with QA and operations.

3. Cost & Compliance

• Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies and statutory requirements.
• Work closely with finance to manage purchase orders, invoices, and payment timelines.
• Monitor landed cost analysis to balance cost efficiency and quality.

4. Cross-functional Collaboration

• Partner with Marketing and Merchandising teams to procure products for campaigns and promotions.
• Work with Logistics and Warehouse teams to streamline delivery timelines and reduce lead times.
• Support new store openings with timely procurement of stock and fixtures.

5. Additional Responsibilities

• Conduct regular market research and competitor benchmarking to identify new products, vendors, and pricing trends.
• Develop and maintain a database of reliable local and international suppliers.
• Ensure ethical sourcing practices and vendor compliance with sustainability and labor standards.
• Support clearance planning and liquidation of slow-moving or aged inventory through supplier negotiations.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field (MBA preferred).
• 3–5
  years' experience in procurement, preferably in retail, sports, or lifestyle industry.
• Strong negotiation, vendor management, and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of retail supply chain, import/export documentation, and category management.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, ERP tools (SAP, Oracle, etc.), and procurement software.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and multitasking abilities.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multi-store retail environment.
• Passion for sports and understanding of product trends (preferred).