Retail jobs in South Africa

Job title : L'Oreal - Snr Key Account Manager (LUXE)

Job Location : Gauteng, Johannesburg

Deadline : January 17, 2026

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The Senior Key Account Manager for the Luxe Division will be a strategic and results-driven professional responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with L'Oréal's most prestigious and high-value retail partners. This role is paramount to driving significant market share growth, enhancing brand equity, and ensuring the exquisite execution of our Luxe portfolio within a highly competitive and discerning market. The successful candidate will be an expert in luxury retail dynamics, possess exceptional negotiation skills, and demonstrate a profound understanding of consumer behaviour in the premium beauty sector. This individual will act as a pivotal link between L'Oréal's Luxe brands and our key accounts, ensuring mutual success and long-term strategic partnerships.

Strategic Account Management:

• Develop and execute comprehensive, bespoke account strategies that align with L'Oréal's Luxe brand objectives and the unique needs of each key account.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing accounts to expand product distribution, market share, and revenue.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis and competitive landscaping to identify trends, opportunities, and potential threats within the luxury beauty retail space.

Relationship Building & Negotiation:

• Establish and nurture robust, long-term relationships with senior stakeholders (buyers, merchandisers, marketing teams, senior management) at key retail partners.
• Lead complex negotiations for annual trade agreements, promotional calendars, merchandising plans, and new product launches, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all commercial aspects, facilitating seamless communication and problem resolution.

Sales & Performance Management:

• Achieve and exceed ambitious sales targets, revenue objectives, and profitability goals for the assigned key accounts.
• Monitor and analyze sales performance data, market share, and stock levels to proactively identify issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and present compelling sales forecasts, business reviews, and strategic plans to both internal leadership and external partners.
• Manage trade marketing budgets effectively to maximize ROI and brand visibility within key accounts.

Brand & Category Development:

• Collaborate closely with internal marketing, brand, and supply chain teams to ensure perfect execution of brand strategies, product launches, and promotional activities.
• Drive best-in-class merchandising, visual display, and customer experience initiatives in collaboration with retail partners.
• Provide valuable market insights and feedback from key accounts to inform future product development and marketing strategies for Luxe brands.

Team Collaboration & Leadership:

• Work cross-functionally with various internal departments (marketing, finance, supply chain, education) to ensure cohesive strategy execution.
• Potentially mentor or guide junior KAMs or account executives, fostering a culture of excellence and strategic thinking.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent master's degree is a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in Key Account Management, National Account Management, or Sales Management within the luxury goods, prestige beauty, fashion, or high-end retail sectors.
• Proven track record of consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets and growing market share with major retailers.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex accounts and negotiating high-value contracts.

Required Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic Acumen: Ability to think strategically, develop long-term plans, and foresee market trends.
• Exceptional Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to influence, persuade, and negotiate effectively at all levels.
• Strong Business & Financial Acumen: Deep understanding of retail economics, P&L management, forecasting, and budget control.
• Client Relationship Management: Superior interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with key stakeholders.
• Analytical Prowess: Proficient in data analysis, market research, and translating insights into actionable strategies.
• Presentation & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Proactiveness & Initiative: Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and ever-evolving luxury retail environment.
• Luxury Market Understanding: A passion for and in-depth knowledge of the luxury beauty or retail industry, including consumer behaviour, competitor landscape, and retail operational excellence.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint) and CRM software.