Svenja Hofe
Senior Buyer
Berlin
Summary
Senior Buyer with extensive international experience across three continents, adept at driving procurement strategies and optimizing vendor relationships. Skilled in vendor negotiations, inventory management, and cost analysis, with a proven track record of delivering quality products on time. Known for a strategic mindset and strong market research capabilities, I am a self-starter with an inquisitive approach who easily fosters positive and collaborative work environments. Flexible and dependable, I thrive in fast-paced settings and am committed to achieving results through teamwork and adaptability.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
4029
4029
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Language
Work History
Buyer, Premium Fashion & Accessories
Zalando SE
Berlin
05.2018 - Current
- Created and implemented procurement strategies for one of Europe’s leading e-commerce retailers, aligning assortment sourcing with business objectives and budget parameters.
- Managed key relationships with top accounts and suppliers, driving long-term success and strategic partnership growth.
- Conducted market research to identify emerging trends and negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, resulting in improved cost-efficiency across product lines.
- Trained and mentored junior buyers in negotiation tactics and assortment planning, cultivating a collaborative, high-performing team culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
Junior Buyer, Bags & Accessories
brands4friends (eBay Inc./ eBay GmbH)
Berlin
06.2017 - 04.2018
- Analyzed market trends and vendor pricing to make informed purchasing decisions that aligned with organizational goals.
- Managed supplier relationships and negotiated contracts to secure favorable terms and ensure timely delivery of goods.
Merchandising Assistant, Accessories
Ralph Lauren Corporation
New York, NY
10.2015 - 05.2016
- Assisted the Senior Vice President in the development and execution of merchandise plans by analyzing sales data and market trends to optimize product assortment.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to coordinate product launches, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with marketing strategies.
Graduate Student Intern in Retail Buying
Bottega Veneta, Kering
New York, NY
06.2015 - 08.2015
- Analyzed sales performance and sell-through data to support line building, product positioning, and global buying strategies; contributed to optimizing in-store collection performance through data-driven assortment planning and market insights.
Graduate Student Intern in International Wholesale
Oscar de la Renta
New York, NY
01.2015 - 05.2015
- Collaborated on buying appointments with senior account executives; maintained and analyzed purchase orders post-market, and compiled detailed account recaps.
Assistant Merchandiser, Private Labels
Zalando SE
Berlin
02.2012 - 04.2013
- Analyzed market trends and sales data to forecast demand and build strategic product assortments that align with brand and seasonal goals.
- Worked with buying, design, and planning teams to manage inventory, pricing, and product placement, helping boost sales and profit margins.
Honours Programme Student in Production
Intersport Int.
Shenzhen
03.2011 - 06.2011
- Conducted risk analysis for a sample consolidation project and led supplier interviews at production facilities in China for one of Europe’s largest sporting goods retailers.
Education
Fashion Merchandising And Retail Management, MPS -
LIM College
New York City, NY08-2015
Bachelor of Fashion Technology - International Fashion & Management
Hogeschool Van Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands06-2012
Skills
Supplier relationship management
Pricing negotiations
Supplier communication
Vendor negotiation
Purchase order management
Strategic sourcing
Purchasing strategies
Retail merchandise buying
Problem-solving aptitude
Active listening
Multitasking
Adaptability and flexibility
Contract negotiation
Vendor relations
Strategic planning
Running & trail running enthusiast
Passionate runner, regularly competing in half marathons and other race events.
Timeline
Buyer, Premium Fashion & Accessories
Zalando SE
05.2018 - Current
Junior Buyer, Bags & Accessories
brands4friends (eBay Inc./ eBay GmbH)
06.2017 - 04.2018
Merchandising Assistant, Accessories
Ralph Lauren Corporation
10.2015 - 05.2016
Graduate Student Intern in Retail Buying
Bottega Veneta, Kering
06.2015 - 08.2015
Graduate Student Intern in International Wholesale
Oscar de la Renta
01.2015 - 05.2015
Assistant Merchandiser, Private Labels
Zalando SE
02.2012 - 04.2013
Honours Programme Student in Production
Intersport Int.
03.2011 - 06.2011
Fashion Merchandising And Retail Management, MPS -
LIM College
Bachelor of Fashion Technology - International Fashion & Management
Hogeschool Van Amsterdam
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