Trainee Development Designer

Cre8work!; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail and gifting business is looking for a Trainee Product Developer in Johannesburg. This entry-level position is ideal for graduates passionate about retail and product development. You will gain hands-on experience in sourcing, trend analysis, and product launches, while receiving mentorship from experienced professionals. The role offers clear career progression into product development and buying.

Benefits

Hands-on experience in retail

Mentorship from senior buyers

Clear career path

Qualifications

• Recent graduate or final-year student in a relevant field.
• Strong passion for retail and product development.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Support product development and buying activities.
• Research market and lifestyle trends.
• Assist with supplier communication.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Help with sales and stock reporting.
• Support inventory monitoring.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Creativity

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Retail, Business, Marketing, Consumer Science, Fashion

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Job description

Trainee Product Developer

About Us

We’re a leading retail and gifting business, passionate about creating beautifully designed, meaningful products that connect with customers. Our Product Development team plays a central role in shaping our ranges – from concept to launch – and we’re looking for ambitious, detail-oriented individuals to join us as Intern / Trainee Product Developers.

This is an exciting entry-level opportunity for graduates or early-career professionals who want to build a career in retail buying and product development. You’ll gain hands‑on experience in sourcing, trend analysis, supplier management, and product launches, while being mentored by experienced buyers.

Role Purpose

As a Trainee Product Developer, you’ll support the Product Development team in researching, planning, and executing new product ranges. You will learn the foundations of buying – from understanding customer demand, analysing sales trends, and assisting with supplier negotiations, to contributing to the introduction of exciting new products.

This role is the first step in a structured career path, with opportunities to grow into a Product Developer and ultimately a fully‑fledged Buyer.

What You’ll Do

• Support product development and buying activities: Assist in range planning, sourcing, and sample management.
• Research trends & customer insights: Stay on top of market and lifestyle trends, preparing reports and inspiration boards for the team.
• Assist with supplier communication: Support the team in liaising with suppliers on product samples, pricing, and lead times.
• Work with cross-functional teams: Collaborate with marketing, supply chain, and quality teams to help bring products to market.
• Help with data & reporting: Prepare sales and stock reports, track product performance, and contribute to team presentations.
• Learn inventory basics: Support the monitoring of stock levels, replenishment needs, and product availability.

What We’re Looking For

• A recent graduate (or final‑year student) in Retail, Business, Marketing, Consumer Science, Fashion, or a related field.
• A passion for retail, product development, and customer experience.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Creativity and curiosity to spot trends and think commercially.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

What You’ll Gain

• Hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced retail buying environment.
• Exposure to the full product lifecycle – from concept to customer.
• Mentorship and guidance from senior buyers and product developers.
• A clear career path towards becoming a fully‑fledged Buyer / Product Developer.
• The opportunity to make a real impact by contributing to products our customers love.