Yuppiechef, a proud member of the Mr Price Group, is looking for a commercially-driven and strategic Head of Buying to lead our homeware and kitchen merchandise division. As the Head of Buying Yuppiechef, you will play a central role in defining product strategies, managing private label and branded assortments, and setting our merchandise apart in a competitive market.

You will lead a high-performing buying team and oversee the full product lifecycle — from identifying customer trends and sourcing innovative materials to shaping assortments that excite and retain our customers. Your ability to connect with suppliers, identify new business opportunities, and translate market intelligence into a winning product strategy is key to success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the overall merchandising strategy, ensuring alignment with brand goals and customer expectations

• Manage buying calendars, supplier relationships, and sourcing activities to maintain a strong and competitive product assortment

• Analyse product performance and market trends to drive decisions that grow revenue and enhance profitability

• Guide and develop a high-performing buying team, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented culture

• Balance private label and branded product strategies while ensuring brand consistency and product innovation

• Build strong partnerships across planning, design, marketing, and retail teams to ensure seamless execution of merchandise strategy

• Maintain deep awareness of the homeware and lifestyle retail landscape, bringing trend foresight into the business

Qualifications

• A relevant degree (Commerce or related field, NQF Level 8 preferred)

• 8–10 years of retail buying experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role

• Extensive background in homeware or lifestyle product buying

• Strong commercial mindset with a proven ability to drive business growth

• Exceptional leadership skills with experience building and mentoring successful teams

• Strong understanding of consumer behaviour, trend forecasting, and product development

• Excellent negotiation skills and a strong network within the supplier and sourcing landscape

• Passion for product, brand storytelling, and delivering premium customer experiences

What we offer

• An inclusive, values-driven work culture

• Competitive total cost to company package including medical aid, life cover, retirement annuity, and employee assistance

• Performance-based quarterly bonuses after one year of employment

• 17 days of annual leave, increasing with length of service

• Flexi-work options and half-day Fridays once a month

• Staff discounts at Yuppiechef and across Mr Price Group retailers

Yuppiechef is committed to building a diverse team and is an equal opportunity employer. Applications are subject to our standard terms and conditions.

Are you ready to shape the future of Yuppiechef’s product offering?