Product Developer- Midrand

We are looking for a proactive and commercially minded Product Developer to join our Product Development team.

In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, selecting, purchasing, and managing product ranges that:

• 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
• At the right time

This role requires a strong balance of:

• Commercial thinking
• Analytical ability

Key Responsibilities

1. 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.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Evaluate vendor performance and resolve issues proactively.
• Negotiate agreements that create long-term value for both parties.
• 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.

4. Maintain Healthy Profit Margins

• Negotiate favourable terms with suppliers, including:
  • 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.

5. Manage Inventory Effectively

• Optimise inventory levels to balance:
  • Product availability
  • Stock holding costs
• Monitor inventory turnover and reorder cycles using inventory management systems.
• Work with Supply Chain to improve:
  • Lead times
  • 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.

Ideal Candidate should have:

• 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.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• A customer-focused approach with strong awareness of:
  • Market trends
  • Product opportunities
• Strong communication and project management skills.

Qualifications

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:
  • Consumer Science
  • Business
  • Supply Chain
  • Marketing
  • Related field