Junior NPD Buyer (Beauty) at Clicks Group

Introduction

• To identify new private label opportunities within Beauty and then develop the products within the required legislative standards and financial targets thereby creating a competitive advantage to grow market share and overall profitability

Job description

Job Objectives:

• To support the NPD Buyer by reviewing Private Label market trends; identify opportunities and conduct gap analysis, in line with good, better, best product principles in order to provide input into the development of the category operating plan.
• To source from local and international suppliers, prepare detailed briefs and ensure a fair tender process is followed to deliver innovation and increased profitability in Private Label.
• To plan, execute and monitor product development projects according to the NPD Process in line with the critical path to meet the category Private Label objectives and targets.
• To be responsible for quality, health and safety across all Private Label product development by adhering to legislation and NPD approval process to protect the Brand reputation and financial impact on the business.
• To develop creative Private Label products that have innovative attributes to ensure competitive advantage and create brand loyalty to increase market share and profitability.
• To support the NPD Buyer by briefing and developing packaging in line with the Brand strategy.
• To provide status updates on product development projects in order to ensure product launches are on time.
• To collate Private Label training material through suppliers for the Sales Management team to train in stores.
• To collate information and score supplier capabilities against core criteria to assist with development and management of strategic supplier partnerships.
• To support the NPD Buyer to achieve the Private Label profitability targets through effective cost price negotiations, margin and stock management prior to Private Label product launches.

Knowledge:

Essential:

• Knowledge of beauty trends and industry
• Knowledge of margin calculations and of buying business processes
• Knowledge of consumer protection act and product legislation

Desirable:

• Knowledge of new product development and of product quality and standard development procedures

Skills:

Essential:

• Ability to analyze and interpret data

Desirable:

• Ability to negotiate with overseas vendors

Competencies:

• Planning and Organising
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks
• Persuading and Influencing
• Creating and Innovating
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking 

Minimum requirements

Experience:

Essential:

• 1 – 3 years buying experience in a health / beauty / FMCG / retail environment

Desirable:

• New product development experience

Education:

• National Diploma in Retail Management / Purchasing