Johannesburg: Brand Manager – Luxury Label Sandton

The Brand Manager in luxury retail with buying experience combines strategic brand leadership with commercial product selection. The role is both creative and analytical, focused on elevating brand perception while driving profitability. This role will include travel to Italy occasionally Brand Strategy & Positioning Develop and implement the brands overall strategy in line with global guidelines Maintain and elevate the luxury brand image across all touchpoints Ensure consistency in tone, visual identity, and customer experience Monitor market trends, competitors, and customer insights Buying & Merchandising Select and curate product ranges aligned with the brand DNA and local market demand Manage seasonal buying cycles, including forecasting and assortment planning Work closely with international suppliers/brands on product selection Analyze sales performance, sell-through rates, and stock movement Optimize product mix to maximize profitability and minimize markdowns Financial & Commercial Management Own and manage the brands P&L (profit and loss) Set and track sales targets, margins, and budgets Manage pricing strategies in line with luxury positioning Drive revenue growth through strategic planning and execution Marketing & Brand Activation Plan and execute luxury marketing campaigns and launches Oversee events, activations, and VIP customer experiences Collaborate with PR, influencers, and media to build brand awareness Ensure all campaigns reflect premium/luxury standards Retail & Customer Experience Ensure in-store execution aligns with luxury standards Oversee visual merchandising and store presentation Drive exceptional customer service and personalized experiences Work closely with store teams to improve conversion and basket size Stakeholder & Relationship Management Build strong relationships with international brand principals and suppliers Liaise with internal teams (marketing, finance, operations, retail) Negotiate with suppliers on pricing, exclusivity, and terms Team Leadership Lead, mentor, and develop retail and brand teams Set clear KPIs and performance expectations Foster a high-performance, brand-driven culture Reporting & Analysis Track and report on sales, stock, and brand performance Use data insights to inform buying and marketing decisions Present performance updates to senior leadership Trend & Market Awareness Stay ahead of global luxury trends, fashion cycles, and consumer behavior Attend trade shows, fashion weeks, and supplier presentations