Junior Product Developer - Toy & Education Range Builder

Smd Technologies; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

SMD Technologies is seeking a commercially minded Junior Product Developer to identify, source, develop, launch and grow product ranges across educational toys and related categories. You will work with our China team and international suppliers to bring products to market and manage category performance post-launch.

The role combines product development, sourcing, category management and retail sales in a hands-on, high-growth environment suitable for someone early in their buying or product

Qualifications

• 2–3 years' experience in a Junior Buyer role within a retail, wholesale, or FMCG environment.
• Proven experience managing the buying cycle and working directly with suppliers/factories.
• Strong commercial and negotiation instincts, with a track record of managing supplier relationships.
• Own reliable vehicle and valid driver''s licence; regular travel to client and store visits required.
• Strong Excel skills and comfort with costings, margins, and basic landed-cost calculations.

Responsibilities

• Identify new products, categories and market gaps, and recommend commercially viable opportunities for SMD to pursue.
• Develop and grow existing categories by identifying new products, channels, customers and range-extension opportunities.
• Work directly with SMD''s China team and international suppliers on product sourcing, specifications, samples, pricing, packaging and order follow-up.
• Develop and manage product ranges from concept through to listing and launch, including costing, pricing, positioning and range architecture.
• Raise and manage purchase orders (POs), tracking lead times, deposits and delivery schedules.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with retail buyers and category managers across large retail groups, independent stores and other relevant channels.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier relationships

Excel

Costings

Travel

Retail support

Education

BCom degree or equivalent

Job description

SMD Technologies is seeking a commercially minded Junior Product Developer to identify, source, develop, launch and grow product ranges across educational toys and related categories. You will work with our China team and international suppliers to bring products to market and manage category performance post-launch.

The role combines product development, sourcing, category management and retail sales in a hands-on, high-growth environment suitable for someone early in their buying or product