Our client, a French‑founded global lifestyle and fashion company, is seeking an experienced and passionate Retail Buyer to support the development of sustainable natural fibre and raw material supply chains across Australia. This unique role combines sourcing, procurement, supplier relationship management, sustainability initiatives, and market intelligence, offering the opportunity to work directly with farms, producers, and supply chain partners.
As our local sourcing representative, you will identify and evaluate new suppliers, strengthen existing partnerships, and contribute to building responsible, traceable, and commercially viable supply chains. You will play a key role in expanding our knowledge of natural fibres and related materials while helping drive long-term sourcing strategies for the business.
Key Responsibilities
Source and assess leading natural fibre farms and related material suppliers across Australia through market research, RFIs, and site visits.
- Develop and maintain strong commercial relationships with existing and prospective suppliers and industry stakeholders.
- Support the onboarding and management of new sourcing partners and help strengthen existing supply chain relationships.
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, minimum order quantities, and delivery schedules to ensure commercial competitiveness and supply continuity.
- Purchase natural fibres, fabrics, trims, and related materials in line with quality, sustainability, and budget requirements.
- Monitor supplier performance, inventory levels, and purchasing activities to support business objectives.
- Contribute to sustainability, traceability, and community projects within sourcing regions.
- Build knowledge and documentation on supply chains, farming practices, sourcing risks, and industry developments.
- Support internal and external communications by collecting field insights, photos, and content that showcase sourcing activities and supplier partnerships.
About You
You are a self-motivated sourcing or procurement professional who enjoys building relationships and working directly with suppliers. You are comfortable travelling extensively, conducting on-site assessments, and turning market intelligence into practical sourcing solutions.
You will ideally bring:
- Experience in sourcing, procurement, buying, or supply chain management.
- Knowledge of natural fibres, cotton, textiles, agriculture, or related raw material industries.
- Strong negotiation, supplier management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- The ability to work autonomously while collaborating with global teams.
- A strong interest in sustainability, traceability, and responsible sourcing practices.
- Fluent English, with additional languages such as French, Spanish, Mandarin, or Cantonese considered a strong advantage.
Travel Requirements
Based in Sydney, this role involves regular travel throughout Australia, including regional and remote areas, as well as occasional international travel to sourcing and manufacturing locations across Asia-Pacific and Europe. A valid driver's licence and work rights in Australia are essential.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Retail Buyer in Sydney employer: The Polyglot Group
Fermob is an exceptional employer that values creativity and innovation, offering a dynamic work environment in Australia where you can make a significant impact on the brand's growth. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have opportunities to enhance your skills while collaborating with a passionate team and engaging with clients and partners in the vibrant outdoor furniture market. The company's commitment to quality and excellence ensures that you will be part of a brand that prioritises both its employees and its customers, making it a rewarding place to work.
