Job Description

Job Title: Senior Key Account Manager
Location: Johannesburg (Woodlands)
Department: LUXE
Reports To: Chief Growth Officer
Role Summary:
The Senior Key Account Manager for the Luxe Division will be a strategic and results-driven professional responsible for cultivating and managing relationships with L'Oreal's most prestigious and high-value retail partners. This role is paramount to driving significant market share growth, enhancing brand equity, and ensuring the exquisite execution of our Luxe portfolio within a highly competitive and discerning market. The successful candidate will be an expert in luxury retail dynamics, possess exceptional negotiation skills, and demonstrate a profound understanding of consumer behaviour in the premium beauty sector. This individual will act as a pivotal link between L'Oreal's Luxe brands and our key accounts, ensuring mutual success and long-term strategic partnerships.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Account Management:

• Develop and execute comprehensive, bespoke account strategies that align with L'Oreal's Luxe brand objectives and the unique needs of each key account.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within existing accounts to expand product distribution, market share, and revenue.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis and competitive landscaping to identify trends, opportunities, and potential threats within the luxury beauty retail space.

Relationship Building & Negotiation:

• Establish and nurture robust, long-term relationships with senior stakeholders (buyers, merchandisers, marketing teams, senior management) at key retail partners.
• Lead complex negotiations for annual trade agreements, promotional calendars, merchandising plans, and new product launches, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all commercial aspects, facilitating seamless communication and problem resolution.

Sales & Performance Management:

• Achieve and exceed ambitious sales targets, revenue objectives, and profitability goals for the assigned key accounts.
• Monitor and analyze sales performance data, market share, and stock levels to proactively identify issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and present compelling sales forecasts, business reviews, and strategic plans to both internal leadership and external partners.
• Manage trade marketing budgets effectively to maximize ROI and brand visibility within key accounts.

Brand & Category Development:

• Collaborate closely with internal marketing, brand, and supply chain teams to ensure perfect execution of brand strategies, product launches, and promotional activities.
• Drive best-in-class merchandising, visual display, and customer experience initiatives in collaboration with retail partners.
• Provide valuable market insights and feedback from key accounts to inform future product development and marketing strategies for Luxe brands.

Team Collaboration & Leadership:

• Work cross-functionally with various internal departments (marketing, finance, supply chain, education) to ensure cohesive strategy execution.
• Potentially mentor or guide junior KAMs or account executives, fostering a culture of excellence and strategic thinking.

Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent master's degree is a plus.
Experience:

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in Key Account Management, National Account Management, or Sales Management within the luxury goods, prestige beauty, fashion, or high-end retail sectors.
• Proven track record of consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets and growing market share with major retailers.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex accounts and negotiating high-value contracts.

Required Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic Acumen: Ability to think strategically, develop long-term plans, and foresee market trends.
• Exceptional Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to influence, persuade, and negotiate effectively at all levels.
• Strong Business & Financial Acumen: Deep understanding of retail economics, P&L management, forecasting, and budget control.
• Client Relationship Management: Superior interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with key stakeholders.
• Analytical Prowess: Proficient in data analysis, market research, and translating insights into actionable strategies.
• Presentation & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Proactiveness & Initiative: Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and ever-evolving luxury retail environment.
• Luxury Market Understanding: A passion for and in-depth knowledge of the luxury beauty or retail industry, including consumer behaviour, competitor landscape, and retail operational excellence.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint) and CRM software

What We Offer:
A challenging and rewarding role within the world's leading beauty company, specifically in its prestigious Luxe Division.
Opportunity to work with iconic luxury brands and shape their presence in key retail channels.
Competitive salary, bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits package.
Extensive opportunities for professional development and career growth within a global organization.
To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this Senior Key Account Manager role within our Luxe Division.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and take pride in a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, medical condition or disability. We adhere to all local Labour Relations legislation.
Closing Date: 03 December 2025

Skills Required