Job category: Other: FMCG, Retail, Wholesale and Supply ChainLocation: Cape TownContract: PermanentEE position: NoIntroductionTo develop and execute a customer-focused and profitable seasonal product strategy that aligns with the company's overall strategy and brand identity. You will ensure the product range is trend-appropriate, commercially viable, and appeals to our target customer. From product conception through to in-store execution, you will oversee the entire journey, ensuring a balanced and well-curated range that meets sales targets and key performance indicators (KPIs).Seasonal Planning & Product DevelopmentDevelop and execute a profitable seasonal product strategy aligned with department KPIs.Leverage data (trends, customer insights, competitor analysis) to guide the product roadmap.Present the seasonal plan, outlining strategic categories and channel-specific considerations.Collaborate with Design & Sourcing to build a balanced, trend-driven range.Partner with Sourcing to introduce innovative product concepts and manage the product lifecycle.Oversee sample approvals with Technical Product Development, ensuring quality and critical path alignment.Utilise global insights to identify market opportunities and product innovation.Deepen customer insights through tools like First Insights and competitor benchmarking.Conduct market research (EDITED, WGSN) to inform product differentiation and merchandising strategies.Develop marketing proposals to enhance the in-store and online customer experience.Trading and Sales PerformanceAnalyse weekly sales across all channels and adjust trading strategies accordingly.Collaborate with Planning and Sourcing to address product performance through markdowns, promotions and volume adjustments.Provide competitor feedback to inform future buying strategies.Minimum RequirementsA relevant degree/qualification in Fashion or Product Development.5 - 8 years of experience in a Buying role, with a strong background in fashion and accessories.Preferred product knowledge in babywear (newborn/infants/toddlers) & accessories.A deep understanding of customer behaviour, market trends and product development processes.Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.Ability to manage a Buyer's Assistant, Trainee and Buyer I.Computer literate with proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.Knowledge of current trends and proven ability to interpret trends and conceptualize products.Excellent understanding of market and ability to analyse trends.Demonstrates the ability to think strategically and formulate effective plans and strategies.Understanding of business and buying processes and systems.Retail market and industry knowledge.Knowledge of markdown and mark up pricing, visibility to drive sales, sell-through.Ability to travel both locally and internationally.
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