Luxury Buyer (Luxury Purchasing Manager)

A Luxury Buyer typically works in fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, or high-end retail. They select and purchase products (finished goods or materials) that align with the brand’s identity and market positioning. They ensure that every item reflects the brand’s standards of quality, exclusivity, and style while meeting customer
expectations and trends.

Among their missions, the Luxury Buyer should:

• Analyze market trends and consumer behavior to anticipate demand.
• Negotiate with suppliers/companies to secure favorable terms and maintain brand standards.
• Manage inventory levels and ensure timely product availability.
• Collaborate with merchandising and marketing teams to align product selection with campaigns.
• Monitor sales performance and adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.

Being a Luxury Buyer ultimately means refining analytical and negotiation skills to ensure the brand offers products that embody its essence and remain competitive. Generally, international travel for sourcing and supplier meetings is expected.

Headhunters and brands seek candidates with a degree in operational marketing or business development.

The American Business College Paris offers a Bachelor in Luxury and Retail Management, an American Bachelor of Business Administration, a MSc in Luxury and Brand Management, and an American MBA—higher education programs ideal
for specializing in brand management and becoming a Luxury Buyer.

These programs help develop skills in operational marketing and strategic thinking thanks to core disciplines, with specializations in business ethics, event marketing, or international business.

The qualities that a Luxury Product Manager must possess:

• Negotiation skill: securing favorable terms with suppliers while maintaining exclusivity is the most important soft skill for a Luxury Product Manager.
• Attention to detail: ensuring product quality and alignment with brand standards.
• Strategic thinking: balancing profitability, brand positioning, and customer demand.
• Creativity: selecting unique products/materials that reflect brand identity and stand out.

Other key traits: cultural awareness, curiosity, adaptability, and passion.

The salary of a Luxury Buyer depends on their supply chain management skills, as brands look for “independent”
talents. A Luxury Product Manager typically begins their career with an annual salary of €50,000 in France.

• Median national salary in France: €60,000.
• Worldwide median salary (as of 2023): $110,000.