Job Title: Product Manager

Division: Professional Products Division (PPD)
Location: Woodmead, South Africa
Reporting to: Brand Leader Multi-brands - PPD

Position Overview

The Product Manager for the Professional Products Division (PPD) is responsible for driving the end-to-end marketing strategy, portfolio management, and commercial execution for assigned brands and product lines within the salon and professional hair/beauty channel. The role requires a strategic thinker with a strong commercial acumen who can partner with salons, distributors, and internal cross-functional teams to accelerate brand growth and market share.

Key Responsibilities

1. Brand & Portfolio Strategy

• Define and execute the 360-degree marketing strategy and launch calendar for assigned PPD brands/ranges.
• Manage the product lifecycle from new product development (NPD) forecasting and local adaptation to phase-outs.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and salon channel dynamics to identify growth opportunities.

2. Commercial & Financial Performance

• Drive brand P&L, managing marketing budgets, pricing strategies, and return on investment (ROI) for campaigns.
• Collaborate with sales and trade marketing teams to ensure strong distribution, visibility, and promotional execution in salons and wholesale partner networks.
• Track sell-in and sell-out data to optimize stock levels and minimize obsolescence.

3. Trade Marketing & Salon Advocacy

• Develop impactful B2B and B2C collateral, POS materials, and merchandising guidelines tailored for the salon environment.
• Partner with education teams to integrate product launches into stylist training programs and ensure brand messaging consistency.
• Plan and execute trade events, digital activations, and brand experiential campaigns targeting hairdressers and salon owners.

4. Digital & Omnichannel Marketing

• Lead digital marketing initiatives, social media content strategy, and CRM campaigns to engage both professionals and end-consumers.
• Collaborate with e-commerce teams to optimize online product listings, digital shelf visibility, and conversion rates across authorized platforms.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: 3 to 5 years of brand management or product management experience, preferably within FMCG, beauty, luxury, or the professional salon/haircare industry.
• Skills:
  • Strong analytical skills with proficiency in market research and financial/P&L management.
  • Excellent project management and cross-functional leadership capabilities.
  • Creative mindset with a strong understanding of digital marketing and omnichannel strategies.
  • Passion for the beauty and professional salon industry.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, adaptability, and autonomy.

Note: This job description provides a general overview of the role and responsibilities. Specific duties may vary depending on business priorities and strategic initiatives.