PEP Merchandise Assistant Vacancies

PEP Invites Suitably Qualified Applicants to Apply for Their Merchandise Assistant Vacancies. The Closing Date for Applications Is Friday, 23 January 2026.

If you enjoy working behind the scenes in retail, love fashion, and have a sharp eye for detail, this opportunity at PEP could be exactly what you are looking for. PEP is currently looking for dedicated and organised Merchandise Assistants who are ready to support the buying team and play a key role in ensuring the right products reach stores on time. This role is ideal for someone who understands retail processes and wants to grow their career in a fast-paced, professional environment.

This is a permanent junior-level position with a market-related salary, offering stability and long-term growth for the right candidate. If you have experience working with buyers and enjoy administration, coordination, and teamwork, this role is worth serious consideration.

What the Merchandise Assistant Role Is About

As a Merchandise Assistant at PEP, your main responsibility will be to support the buying process through strong administration and coordination. You will help ensure that orders are created correctly, suppliers are followed up, and stock arrives on time. This role is very important because it helps keep the entire buying and supply process running smoothly.

You will work closely with buyers, suppliers, and other departments such as marketing. Your work will directly affect product availability, promotions, and overall store readiness. This makes the role both challenging and rewarding.

Your Daily Responsibilities Explained Simply

A big part of your role will be managing the sample process. This means tracking samples from suppliers, checking progress, sending updates, and making sure everything is ready when needed. You will also be responsible for keeping the sample room organised and well maintained.

You will communicate with suppliers about orders and shipping details. This includes following up on deliveries, making sure timelines are met, and resolving any issues that may come up. Good communication skills are important here, as you will often be the link between suppliers and the internal buying team.

Another key duty is helping with the markdown process. This involves handling the administration related to price changes and ensuring all information is captured correctly. Accuracy is very important, as mistakes can affect sales and stock planning.

You will also assist with general administration tasks such as capturing orders, filing documents, responding to queries, and releasing orders once everything is approved. These tasks may seem small, but they are essential to keeping the buying department organised and efficient.

Working With Other Departments

This role is not isolated to one team. You will work closely with the Marketing Department, especially when it comes to promotions and sample management. This means making sure samples are available on time for campaigns and that information is shared clearly.

Because of this, cross-functional experience is very valuable. Understanding how buying connects with marketing, logistics, and stores will help you succeed and grow faster in this role.

Requirements You Need to Apply

To be considered for this Merchandise Assistant position, you must have completed Grade 12. A fashion diploma or degree will be an advantage, especially if you want to build a long-term career in fashion retail.

You should have between three and five years of retail experience working with buyers. In addition, five or more years of experience in a buying environment is required. This shows that PEP is looking for someone who already understands how buying teams work and can handle responsibility.

Computer skills are essential. You should be comfortable using MS Office, G-Suite, and PLM systems. These tools are used daily for tracking orders, managing data, and communicating with teams and suppliers.

Skills and Personal Qualities That Matter

PEP is looking for someone who is accurate, organised, and results-driven. You need to pay close attention to detail, especially when handling orders, reports, and supplier information.

Being service-oriented is very important. You must be willing to support buyers, suppliers, and colleagues with a positive attitude. Good listening skills will help you understand instructions clearly and respond correctly to feedback.

The company also values flexibility and adaptability. Retail changes quickly, and you must be able to adjust to new priorities and deadlines. Integrity and professionalism are expected at all times, especially when handling sensitive information.

Work Environment and Job Details

This is a permanent junior-level position with a market-related salary. It is an employment equity position, and PEP supports equal opportunity in line with its employment equity guidelines.

The reference number for this role is PEP-2301. Applications close on Friday, 23 January 2026. If you do not hear back within four weeks after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Why This Opportunity Is Worth Considering

Working as a Merchandise Assistant at PEP gives you valuable experience in the retail buying space. You will gain exposure to suppliers, product planning, and internal business processes. This role can open doors to future opportunities within buying, merchandising, or other retail functions.

If you are organised, motivated, and ready to grow in a structured retail environment, this could be the next big step in your career. Make sure your application is submitted before the closing date to avoid missing out.