Buyer II - Branded Beauty

Listing reference: woolw_001292
Listing status: Under Review
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.

Our website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our use of cookies.