Listing reference: woolw_001292
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 13 August 2025
Position summary
Industry: Wholesale & Retail Trade
Job category: Other: FMCG, Retail, Wholesale and Supply Chain
Location: Cape Town
Contract: Permanent
EE position: No
Introduction
To lead the strategic curation and performance of a Branded portfolio of brands within the fragrance category by delivering a customer-led, trend-relevant and commercially sound assortment. This role is responsible for driving brand partnerships, margin growth and innovation to strengthen Woolworths’ position as a trusted authority in the beauty space. We’re looking for a forward-thinking and strategic Buyer to shape and grow one of the most dynamic categories in our business.
Job description
Category Strategy & Planning
- Integrate customer segmentation and trend insights to shape a brand-led assortment strategy.
- Contribute to the development of departmental operating plans that align with Group KPIs and customer needs.
- Lead post- and in-season analysis to inform trade and planning decisions.
Range Development & Assortment Curation
- Build a balanced, forward-thinking range with appropriate price tiering and innovation.
- Ensure strong brand positioning, exclusivity, and customer relevance.
Brand & Supplier Management
- Negotiate brand support, service levels, and trading terms that optimise margin and commercial returns.
- Manage onboarding and exit of brands within agreed timelines and strategic intent.
Performance & Trade
- Monitor weekly and monthly performance to identify trade opportunities and course-correct where needed.
- Leverage insights to maximise sales, profit, and market share.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
- Work closely with Planning, Marketing, Stores, and Online to deliver a seamless, omnichannel beauty experience.
- Conduct regular store visits to assess product execution and customer interaction.
People Development
- Coach and develop Buying Assistants and Buyer I.
- Inspire the team to achieve and deliver the departmental operational plan and meet/exceed KPI’s.
Minimum requirements
- Relevant retail/business qualification.
- 3–5 years’ buying experience (Branded Beauty preferred).
- Strong strategic planning, brand management and negotiation skills.
- Proven commercial acumen with the ability to interpret data into action.
- Deep customer orientation, trend awareness and competitive insight.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and team collaboration skills.
- Entrepreneurial mindset, results-driven and comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
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