Buying Manager Private Labels: TFG Beauty at TFG (The Foschini Group)

Key Responsibilities:

Private Label Strategy & Execution

• Define and drive the private label beauty strategy in line with overall business goals and customer insights.
• Lead end-to-end product lifecycle management across multiple beauty subcategories — from concept to shelf.
• Build a strategic assortment framework that supports category growth, white space capture, and brand positioning.
• Balance trend-forward innovation with customer-centric formulations, packaging, and pricing.

Product Development

• Own the private label product development calendar and critical path to deliver new launches on time and within budget.
• Collaborate with internal and external design resources to create compelling packaging, branding, and product storytelling.
• Partner with technical and quality teams to ensure regulatory compliance, product efficacy, and safety standards are met.
• Approve pre-production and production samples, ensuring consistent execution across all SKUs.
• Drive sustainability initiatives within private label through responsible packaging, clean formulations, and ethical sourcing.

Supplier Management & Sourcing

• Identify and manage a global supplier base specialising in private label manufacturing for beauty and personal care.
• Lead commercial negotiations to achieve margin targets, favorable MOQs, and optimised lead times.
• Ensure ongoing supplier compliance with ethical, social, and environmental standards in line with the brand’s sustainability goals.
• Foster strong partnerships with contract manufacturers, raw material suppliers, and packaging vendors.

Commercial & KPI Management

• Monitor and manage key business metrics including sales, margin, stock health, clearance, and sell-through.
• Use commercial insights, sales trends, and consumer data to inform future product decisions and range evolution.
• React quickly to trade performance with in-season adjustments, fast-track launches, or promotional support.
• Develop action plans to improve performance and mitigate risks, ensuring private label ranges remain competitive and relevant.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Planning, Marketing, E-commerce, Visual Merchandising, and Store Operations to deliver cohesive, brand-right launches.
• Partner with the digital team on DTC strategies, online exclusives, and customer journeys for private label beauty.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Social teams to support campaigns, influencer activity, sampling, and brand storytelling.

Innovation & Trend Integration

• Translate macro beauty trends, emerging ingredients, and consumer behavior into winning product concepts.
•  Conduct regular competitor benchmarking and global market research to stay ahead of the curve.
• Lead innovation in formats, claims, sensorial experiences, and formulation — ensuring every product adds unique value.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of buyers, product developers, and category specialists.
• Promote a culture of creativity, accountability, and commercial excellence within the private label team.
• Support the career development of team members through coaching, feedback, and learning opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Buying, Business, Beauty Science, Cosmetic Product Development, or related field.
• 10+ years’ experience in buying or merchandising, with at least 3 years focused on private label beauty or personal care.
• Experience managing end-to-end product development, including manufacturing and sourcing.
• Solid understanding of beauty industry regulations, trends, and customer expectations.
• Proven success in driving commercially viable product strategies and building brand equity.