Product Development Specialist

The Legends Agency; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive supply company in South Africa seeks a skilled Product Development Specialist to lead automotive product strategy. The role requires 15+ years of experience in product development, focusing on supplier negotiation and managing large product portfolios. You will research vehicle models, set pricing, and negotiate deals to align product ranges across branches. This is an opportunity to join a fast-paced team driving growth and innovation in the automotive aftermarket.

Qualifications

• 15+ years experience in product development, ideally in automotive aftermarket retail or wholesale.
• Proven ability to manage large product portfolios and roll out new product lines.
• Strong supplier negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead product development for automotive parts and equipment.
• Research vehicle models across passenger and commercial categories.
• Set pricing, negotiate deals, and align with senior leadership.

Skills

Supplier negotiation skills

Market research skills

Product management

Tools

Kerridge ERP system

Job description

Product Development Specialist Automotive

Location: Western Cape
Salary: R40,000R45,000

About the Role

Were looking for an experienced Product Development Specialist to lead our automotive product strategy at Electric Cape Group. If you have a strong background in the aftermarket parts industry and a passion for growing product ranges, this could be the perfect role for you.

What Youll Do

• Lead product development for our automotive parts and equipment.

• Research vehicle models across passenger, light, and heavy commercial categories.

• Identify and source essential spare parts, including:

  • Engine & Electrical: Filters, spark/glow plugs, ignition coils, starters, alternators

  • Mechanical: Brakes, belts, water pumps, suspension, steering, clutches

  • Consumables: Lubricants, chemicals, batteries, car care products

  • Accessories: Lighting, sensors, hoses, fasteners, adhesives

• Find suppliers for all product categories:

  • Desamark

  • Bosch

  • Other local or import suppliers

• Source and evaluate automotive workshop equipment (diagnostics, lifting, testing, etc.).

• Plan initial stock levels, hand over ongoing replenishment to Procurement.

• Ensure common product ranges across branches, with room for branch-specific needs.

• Set pricing, negotiate deals, and align with senior leadership on rebates.

• Keep up with market trends through competitor surveys.

• Assist in catalog creation and maintenance within our Kerridge ERP system.

• Support training initiatives for both staff and customers on new products.

What Youll Need

• 15+ years experience in product development, ideally in automotive aftermarket retail or wholesale.

• Strong supplier negotiation and market research skills.

• Proven ability to manage large product portfolios and roll out new product lines.

• Familiarity with ERP systems, especially Kerridge, is a plus.

This role is perfect for a hands-on, detail-oriented product specialist ready to drive growth and innovation.

Apply now to join a dynamic, fast-paced team shaping the future of automotive supply.