Permanent - Senior Product Developer - Johannesburg - South Africa

Merchandise and Product Development Department

About the Role:

Require a proactive and commercially minded Product Developer to join the Product Development team.

In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, selecting, purchasing, and managing product ranges that excite customers, drive sales growth, and maintain strong margins. You will work closely with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure the right products are available at the right price, in the right quantities, and at the right time.

This role requires a strong balance of commercial thinking, analytical ability, and supplier relationship management.

Key Responsibilities:

New Product Introduction:

• Identify emerging market trends and customer needs
• Source and develop new products for launch
• Work with Marketing and internal teams to execute successful product launches
• Track product performance and refine strategies based on results

Vendor Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers
• Evaluate vendor performance and resolve issues proactively
• Negotiate agreements that create long-term value for both parties

Drive Sales Growth:

• Develop and implement buying strategies to support sales growth in assigned categories
• Analyse sales performance and customer trends to identify product opportunities
• Collaborate with Marketing to plan and execute promotional campaigns

Maintain Healthy Profit Margins:

• Negotiate favourable terms with suppliers (pricing, delivery, payment terms)
• Monitor cost structures and adjust pricing or sourcing strategies where required
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising product quality or value

Manage Inventory Effectively:

• Optimise inventory levels to balance availability and stock holding costs
• Monitor inventory turnover and reorder cycles using inventory management systems
• Work with Supply Chain to improve lead times and replenishment processes
• Forecast demand and monitor stock levels to prevent supply gaps
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable replenishment
• Support best practices in stock management and inventory accuracy

• Bachelor’s degree in Consumer Science, Business, Supply Chain, Marketing, or a related field preferred

  Experience in product development, buying, or procurement within a retail environment

  Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and forecast demand

  Proven ability to negotiate with suppliers and manage vendor relationships

  Experience working with inventory management systems and stock control processes

  Collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally

  Customer-focused with a strong awareness of market trends and product opportunities

  Strong communication and project management skills