Field Sourcing Officer at Softhills Limited

Role Summary

We’re looking for a sharp, street-smart Field Sourcing Officer to help us find profitable products and reliable suppliers from Nigerian markets, online platforms, and international sources. This person will identify vendors, negotiate the best prices, purchase stock, and ensure quality, all while being resourceful and fast.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier & Product Sourcing

• Source profitable products from:
• Local markets and distributors (e.g., Trade Fair, Balogun, Alaba, Orile, etc.)
• Nigerian online vendors
• International platforms/vendors (e.g., Alibaba/1688, Turkey, Dubai, China, UK/US)
• Build and maintain a database of trusted suppliers with pricing, MOQs, lead times, and reliability notes.
• Spot new product trends and recommend items that match our target customers.

Negotiation & Purchasing

• Negotiate prices, credit terms, discounts, bundles, and delivery terms.
• Place purchase orders and follow through until goods are received.
• Ensure purchases meet budget and margin targets.

Quality Control

• Inspect samples and bulk goods for defects, authenticity, and compliance with brand standards.
• Reject or return substandard items and resolve disputes with suppliers.

Logistics Coordination

• Work with logistics partners/agents to move goods from vendors to our warehouse.
• Track deliveries and ensure timelines are met.
• For international sourcing: coordinate with freight forwarders and clearing agents.

Reporting & Documentation

• Submit weekly sourcing reports: items sourced, vendors contacted, costs, expected margins, issues.
• Keep records of transactions, receipts, supplier agreements, and delivery confirmations.

Requirements

Must-Have

• Proven experience in sourcing/procurement for retail or e-commerce (Nigeria experience is a big plus).
• Strong negotiation skills — knows how to “price down” without losing supplier trust.
• Good understanding of Nigerian markets and how to buy smartly without being overcharged.
• Comfortable moving around markets and vendor locations.
• Basic Excel/Google Sheets skills for tracking inventory and pricing.

Nice-to-Have

• Experience sourcing from abroad (Alibaba, 1688, Turkey, Vietnam, Dubai, etc.)
• Existing vendor network in your category.
• Understanding of import logistics and cost build-up (landing cost).
• Ability to verify quality/authenticity quickly.

Skills & Traits

• Resourceful, sharp-eyed, and opportunistic (in a good way)
• Street-smart + business-minded
• Fast execution, follows up aggressively
• Honest and accountable with money and purchases
• Good communication (calls, WhatsApp, email)
• Strong attention to detail (sizes, colors, model numbers, batch quality)