A strategic market leader in South Africa is seeking an experienced professional to manage product and brand strategies. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years in a similar role, preferably within FMCG or luxury sectors. Responsibilities include campaign execution, market research, and supplier management. The role requires strong problem-solving and communication skills, alongside the ability to coach a team. Candidates should hold a relevant degree and possess excellent computer skills.
Qualifications
Post Grade 12 qualification is requisite.
Minimum 5 years in a similar role.
Experience in FMCG or luxury brands.
Responsibilities
Manage annual category and brand plans.
Execute campaigns for category goals.
Research market trends for new products.
Oversee stock management and PLM.
Manage supplier relationships and compliance.
Lead and develop department staff.
Skills
Strategic approach
Creative problem solving
Negotiating skills
Organisational skills
Time management
Communication skills
Coaching ability
Independence
Computer skills (MS Office, ERP)
Deadline management
Flexibility
Education
Degree or similar qualification
Tools
ERP systems
Job description
Duties & Responsibilities
Manage and direct formal annual category, brand and product plans to achieve financial and growth and Profitability/GP
Create, plan, manage and execute campaigns to achieve category and brand plans
New Product development - Research and monitoring of market trends and competitor strategies, whilst driving the NPD process, ensuring success from concept to actual launch implementation Identify and introduce innovative ingredients, packaging, technologies, products, concepts and ideas that are commercially viable
PLM and Stock management, ensure efficient stock planning and stock movement in collaboration with Procurement and Operations Department including:
Manage and guide annual growth targets and forecasts by brand and SKU
Ensure sufficient promotional activity and innovation to drive required stock turn
Ensure stock is cleared prior to ageing / expiry
Manage product costing effectively within required purchasing and packaging parameters and partner and communicate/negotiate with manufacturers and suppliers
Manage supplier relationships with regards to Agreements, Processes and Business requirements
Ensure all products are legal, compliant and appropriate for Exports and CAMS, focusing on labels and ingredients
Project management
Lead, manage and develop people within the Department
Improve and implement efficient systems and processes
Desired Experience & Qualification
Strategic approach
Creative problem solving
A post Grade 12 (Degree or similar) qualification is a requisite and RPL will be taken into account
A proven track record of at least 5 years in a similar role
FMCG or luxury brand experience
Strong Negotiating, organisational and time management skills
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
Able to coach, manage and grow people.
Ability to deal with variety of people in a customer orientated, friendly manner
Ability to work independently
Strong computer skills on office administrative packages (incl. Outlook, MS Word, Excel) and ERP system
Ability to agree and achieve deadlines and function in stressful environment