Premium Brand Commercial Category Manager

As the Commercial Category Manager at this global brand, you'll hold a pivotal, high-influence role, acting as the bridge between global brand direction and local market execution. You'll lead a dedicated inventory team to maximise sales, margin, and category performance across all product groups, from core ranges to limited editions. This role will suit a commercially astute professional who is adept at balancing premium brand stewardship with the science of data-driven inventory management and analysis. Your Strategic Scope Range Planning: Develop and execute seasonal and annual buying plans that align international strategy with the specific needs and climate profile of the South African consumer. Commercial Stewardship: Set retail and wholesale pricing strategies and monitor SKU profitability to ensure long-term growth and competitiveness. Demand & Performance Excellence: Lead accurate demand forecasting by analysing historical data and market trends, ensuring optimal stock availability across all channels and locations. Global Collaboration: Partner with global supply chain teams and international counterparts to manage product timelines, order placement, and sourcing standards. Lifecycle & Risk Management: Drive excellence in inventory upkeep, implementing protocols to mitigate stock losses and proposing strategic markdowns to protect brand equity. Cross-Functional Leadership: Work closely with the CEO, Finance, Marketing, and eCommerce teams to ensure seamless product launches and high-impact campaigns. Requirements The Ideal Candidate You are a strategic thinker with a sharp eye for operational detail, understanding that "premium" is as much about stock availability and margin health as it is about aesthetics. You are commercially minded and have an entrepreneurial outlook. You take accountability and have strong decision making skills. Essential Requirements: Experience: Minimum 5 years in a retail buying or category management role, specifically within premium or international consumer brands. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field. Technical Proficiency: Advanced analytical skills with experience in Power BI, ERP systems, and demand planning tools. Commercial Acumen: A deep understanding of the South African retail landscape, consumer behaviour, and global brand governance. Leadership: Proven ability to manage teams (Inventory Planners/Coordinators) and collaborate across functions. Advantageous Expertise: Familiarity with Logility or Salesforce Commerce Cloud. Experience with D365 Benefits Global brand Strong accountability Room to bring your own ideas and voice to the table New role - chance to shape it from the get-go