Job Responsibilities:
a) Plan and control the activities of designated sourcing unit based on commercial and development strategies decided by related merchandise departments.
b) Supervise the trips of staff with foreign and resident Buyers and participate in vendor site visits as required.
c) Negotiate the best price for merchandise in conjunction with buyers.
d) Evaluate both local and other markets to recommend the best source for a particular product or category of products. Investigate market opportunities within the region. Coordinate foreign trips to vendors as required and write proposals to establish cost and benefit of attending trade shows and exhibitions. Once approved designate staff to attend trade shows. Coordinate external buyer attendance at shows if required.
e) Once orders are placed, ensures order standards are met and handle difficult situations with manufacturers. Spot check vendor warehouses when a quality or production concern arises. Visit factories to create opportunities and resolve problems.
f) Ensure that potential new vendors and factories can meet certain standards and requirements for Social Compliance and Cargo Security Programs.
Job Requirements:
a) University graduate with minimum 5 years’ solid experience in sourcing and production or related field, well-known importer catering to U.S. Market
b) Proven relevant experience as specialist in assigned category or generalist in other categories in U.S., Canada, or UK retail market
c) Fluent in conversation, written and comprehension of English and Mandarin Chinese; other language or Chinese dialects a plus
d) Understanding of sourcing office, manufacturing principles, materials, production process, U.S. customs and international logistics and trade with hands-on approach
e) Excellent interpersonal skills with proven record of building relationships
f) Exceptional organization, problem solving, negotiation and time management skills
g) Independent with a passion in products and knowledgeable in latest market trends
h) Strong business acumen and entrepreneurial
i) Willing and able to frequently travel to explore new opportunities