Trainee Buyer 2026

We are on the lookout for Trainee Buyers who will learn how to interpret trends and build fashion ranges to merchandise over 1000 Ackermans stores. Your fashion qualification and retail experience could give you the opportunity of a lifetime as an Ackermans 2026 Trainee Buyer. Trainees are paid to learn!

What To Expect

Working in a team you will gain exposure to every aspect of value retail - from Buying, Planning and Marketing to Supply Chain and Store Operations to name but a few.
Our industry renowned Trainee Buyer Programme which has already graduated dozens of highly successful Buyers.
A learning journey which incorporates on-the-job training, classroom sessions and assessments to monitor and develop your progress.
Expect to be coached by the industrys most successful professionals, who will help you acquire the business skills you need to run a multi-million rand portfolio as if it was your own business.
Develop products and build ranges which will Bring Value to Life for millions of South Africans each day.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED TO QUALIFY?

You absolutely MUST LOVE FASHION!
Strong work ethic, resilience and a hunger to learn
Fantastic planning and organising abilities
Excellent written and oral communication
Presentation skills
Budget management and negotiating skills
The ability to adapt in a fast paced environment
Resilience and the ability to thrive under pressure
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
Be open to continuous learning

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?

A degree / diploma in Fashion Design, Clothing Production or similar
A minimum of 2 years work experience will set you apart, including experience with merchandise suppliers, in manufacturing, or corporate fashion retail.

WHEN DO I START?