Purchasing Officer

The Purchasing Officer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring fabrics and sewing accessories from the open market to support timely and cost-effective fashion production. This role requires strong market knowledge, supplier relationship management, quality assessment skills, and cost control discipline to ensure production runs smoothly without material shortages or quality compromises. Key Responsibilities • Source fabrics, trims, sewing accessories, and production materials from local and regional markets in line with approved specifications. • Conduct market surveys to identify reliable suppliers, competitive pricing, and emerging material trends. • Inspect and assess fabric quality, color consistency, durability, and suitability for specific designs and production needs. • Negotiate pricing, payment terms, delivery timelines, and bulk purchase discounts with vendors. • Prepare purchase requests, purchase orders, and maintain accurate procurement records. • Coordinate closely with the production, design, and inventory teams to understand material requirements and timelines. • Monitor stock levels and support inventory planning to avoid shortages or overstocking. • Ensure all sourced materials meet company quality standards, ethical sourcing policies, and sustainability guidelines (where applicable). • Track supplier performance and recommend approved vendors for long-term partnerships. • Support cost control initiatives by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. Key Competencies Required (10) 1. Strong knowledge of fabrics and sewing accessories (types, quality indicators, and use cases). 2. Market intelligence and sourcing skills, especially in open and informal markets. 3. Quality inspection and evaluation ability for textiles and trims. 4. Negotiation and bargaining skills to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms. 5. Cost awareness and budget management discipline. 6. Supplier relationship management and vendor evaluation capability. 7. Attention to detail and accuracy in specifications, quantities, and documentation. 8. Time management and reliability to meet production deadlines. 9. Basic record-keeping and reporting skills, including purchase documentation. 10. Integrity and ethical judgment, ensuring transparent procurement practices.