Position Description
Position Title: Automotive Retail Procurement Specialist
Business Name: Jan Japan Pty Ltd
Salary: $79,500 per annum + superannuation
Location: 205 Ballarat Road Maidstone 3012 VIC
Employment Type: Full-time
About Us
Jan Japan Pty Ltd is a reputable automotive retail business specialising in the sourcing, import, sale, rental, and leasing of high-quality Japanese vehicles across Australia. The company is committed to supplying reliable and competitively priced vehicles by maintaining strong supplier networks and responding effectively to changing consumer preferences and market demands.
Position Overview
Jan Japan Pty Ltd is seeking an experienced Automotive Retail Procurement Specialist to manage the selection and procurement of Japanese vehicles for resale and rental purposes. The position is responsible for monitoring market trends, analysing sales performance and stock requirements, negotiating with suppliers and ensuring the availability of suitable inventory to meet consumer demand and business objectives. The role requires strong market research capabilities, pricing knowledge, supplier relationship management, and sound purchasing judgement to maintain profitable retail operations.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
√ Researching supplier, trade, auction, and market information to evaluate vehicle availability, pricing trends, competitor activity, and emerging automotive market conditions.
√ Selecting and purchasing Japanese vehicles through recognised auction platforms in accordance with customer demand, quality standards, business requirements, and budget allocations.
√ Reviewing and interpreting Japanese auction inspection sheets, grading reports, vehicle specifications, and condition assessments to evaluate vehicle quality, mechanical condition, and retail suitability prior to purchase.
√ Negotiating pricing, purchase terms, and supply arrangements with auction houses, exporters, suppliers, and related stakeholders to secure favourable procurement outcomes.
√ Develop and implement marketing and promotional strategies to support sales growth, increase product visibility, and achieve business objectives.
√ Liaise with management regarding long-term business objectives and purchasing plans, providing input on product planning, stock requirements, and sales strategies.
√ Develop and implement clearance and stock liquidation strategies for excess, slow-moving, or obsolete inventory to minimise stock holding costs and maximise returns.
√ Monitor and manage revenue, stock investment, profitability, and gross profit targets, ensuring purchasing and sales activities are aligned with the organisation’s financial objectives.
√ Monitoring automotive market trends, customer demand, stock turnover, auction sales data, and pricing movements to identify vehicle purchasing requirements and support informed buying decisions.
√ Establishing purchasing and inventory plans based on sales forecasts, stock availability, market demand, and business objectives to maintain optimum inventory levels and minimise shortages or overstocking.
√ Calculating FOB and C&F pricing by assessing auction fees, inland transportation, shipping costs, port charges, and related procurement expenses to support cost-effective purchasing decisions and profitability.
√ Analysing sold-price data, customer preferences, and market intelligence to forecast purchasing needs and determine suitable vehicle quantity, quality, specifications, and styles for stock acquisition.
√ Maintaining accurate procurement, supplier, pricing, and inventory records, while coordinating with logistics providers and relevant stakeholders regarding shipment schedules and stock availability.
Employment Requirements
√ Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in retail purchasing, procurement, vehicle sourcing, or a related buying role.
√ Proven experience in purchasing Japanese vehicles through auction platforms and evaluating vehicle grades, specifications, and condition reports.
√ Strong knowledge of market research, pricing analysis, and cost calculations, including procurement and shipping costs.
√ Ability to monitor market trends, consumer demand, and stock requirements to support purchasing decisions.
√ Experience in supplier negotiation, procurement planning, and inventory management.
√ Sound understanding of shipping procedures, import documentation, and compliance requirements.
√ Strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills with proficiency in online auction and inventory systems.
Qualification Requirements
√ Diploma or higher qualification in Information Technology Essentials, Business, Supply Chain, or a related discipline; or equivalent relevant industry experience.