Product Manager at Core Group

Job Description

• At Core Group, we are passionate about bringing world-class technology brands to market and creating exceptional customer experiences across Southern Africa. As the official distributor and strategic partner for some of the world's leading technology brands, we continue to expand our portfolio with innovative products that transform the way people work, create, and connect.
• We are looking for a commercially driven, entrepreneurial, and highly motivated Product Manager to lead the growth and success of one of the fastest-growing and most innovative brands in the 3D printing industry.
• This role is responsible for defining, developing, and executing the brand strategy within the territory, driving sales growth, profitability, market share, and retailer engagement while managing the product lifecycle from planning through execution.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial & Financial Management

• Own and manage the brand P&L, including revenue, gross margin, marketing spend (MDF), and inventory performance against budget.
• Set, monitor, and report on monthly financial KPIs and business performance.
• Deliver accurate sales forecasts and business projections within agreed deadlines.
• Measure and manage inventory weeks-of-cover to ensure healthy stock levels and optimal working capital.
• Identify and activate new revenue streams, market opportunities, and commercial partnerships.

Brand & Product Strategy

• Develop and execute annual and quarterly business plans aligned with global brand objectives and local market opportunities.
• Implement and manage the localised product strategy and roadmap.
• Analyse market trends, competitor activity, and retailer performance to identify growth opportunities.
• Drive market share growth and increase the brand's contribution across key retail and online channels.
• Develop and execute local marketing initiatives in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Retail & Channel Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key national retailers, e-commerce partners, and senior decision-makers.
• Align business plans with strategic retail partners to exceed agreed sales targets.
• Negotiate commercial agreements and ensure successful execution of promotions and launches.
• Monitor retailer performance and implement action plans to maximise sell-through and profitability.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure all brand operations are supported by documented and effective processes.
• Manage key operational metrics including debtors, aged claims, stock management, and partner compliance.
• Maintain clear traceability and management of business requirements from internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, marketing, finance, supply chain, and operations teams to achieve business objectives.

Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop team members to achieve high performance.
• Drive recruitment, performance management, and talent development initiatives where required.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years' Product Management experience.
• Minimum 3 years' experience within a retail supplier or vendor environment.
• 3–5 years' experience working with mass retailers and online retail channels.
• Demonstrated experience managing brand growth, profitability, and commercial performance.
• Experience working with large international brands will be advantageous.
• Technical knowledge of the 3D printing industry will be highly advantageous.
• Experience within the consumer electronics or technology industry is advantageous.
• Proven people management and leadership experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong commercial and financial acumen.
• Excellent analytical and strategic thinking capability.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.
• Advanced organisational and planning ability.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Working knowledge of macOS and iOS platforms.
• Energetic, passionate, and self-motivated with a growth mindset.