Make-Up Artist ARC V&A: Prestige Cosmetics Group Hiring for Permanent NARS Role in Cape Town

Prestige Cosmetics Group has opened applications for a permanent Make-Up Artist position at the NARS counter at the V&A Waterfront, targeting experienced retail cosmetics professionals in Cape Town. The role is based in the ARC V&A retail environment and forms part of the company’s sales division, with a strong focus on client experience, brand execution, and sales performance.

The vacancy affects qualified make-up artists with at least three years of retail cosmetics experience, particularly those seeking stable employment within a premium beauty brand. The appointment comes as luxury beauty retailers continue to invest in in-store expertise to drive customer engagement and in-person sales in high-traffic locations such as the V&A Waterfront.

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What the Make-Up Artist Role at ARC V&A Involves

The position is structured as a sales-driven make-up artistry role within the Prestige Cosmetics Group portfolio, specifically aligned to NARS Cosmetics. According to the job listing, the role combines professional make-up application with retail performance, customer relationship building, and brand representation.

The successful candidate will operate within the Sales Department, reporting into store and brand management structures, while maintaining daily interaction with customers on the shop floor.

This is not a freelance or short-term contract. The position is advertised as permanent, with standard retail shift requirements.

Key Responsibilities: Sales, Brand, and Client Experience

The job description outlines a multi-layered role that balances artistry with commercial outcomes.

Sales and Performance Targets

The Make-Up Artist is expected to contribute directly to store profitability by:

• Achieving monthly and annual sales targets
• Driving sales through the make-up product category
• Supporting brand activations, launches and in-store events once certified by NARS
• Reporting customer feedback and sales challenges to management

Sales performance is positioned as a core expectation, not an add-on.

Brand Standards and Representation

Brand execution forms a central part of the role. Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining hygiene and safety standards in line with NARS requirements
• Ensuring consistent adherence to brand presentation standards
• Monitoring competitor activity and current beauty trends
• Representing the brand professionally in all customer interactions

The role requires up-to-date product knowledge and awareness of industry developments.

Stock, Merchandising, and Store Operations

Operational duties include:

• Merchandising stock according to brand guidelines
• Daily reporting of out-of-stock items
• Managing stock administration and loss prevention processes
• Adhering to security and asset control procedures
• Handling point-of-sale responsibilities

These functions support both sales continuity and customer experience.

Customer Experience as a Core Deliverable

According to the listing, client experience is central to the role, with a strong emphasis on relationship-building and personalised service.

Key expectations include:

• Delivering consistent and professional service to all customers
• Demonstrating products using advanced makeup techniques
• Creating personalised make-up looks that inspire confidence
• Sharing expert tips, trend insights ,and application advice
• Supporting customer database growth through CRM processes

The role blends artistry with education, positioning the make-up artist as both a consultant and brand ambassador.

Teamwork and Retail Environment Expectations

The Make-Up Artist will work closely with colleagues across the store and brand network. Team-based responsibilities include:

• Supporting new team members during onboarding
• Participating in events and promotional activities
• Contributing to a collaborative retail environment
• Assisting across beauty categories, including fragrance, when required

The role requires flexibility, particularly during peak trading periods.

Administration and Reporting Duties

Administrative responsibilities form part of daily operations and include:

• Completing tracking sheets and performance reports
• Submitting retail updates as required
• Assisting store management with operational tasks

These duties support performance tracking and store efficiency.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Prestige Cosmetics Group has set clear minimum requirements for the role.

Applicants must have:

• At least three years of cosmetics experience in a retail environment
• At least three years of advanced make-up artistry experience
• A formal makeup certificate
• Demonstrable knowledge of current beauty trends
• Willingness to work retail shifts and weekends
• Own transport

The employer also notes the importance of teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving ability.

What This Means for Gauteng Residents

While the position is based in Cape Town, it highlights a broader trend affecting Gauteng’s beauty and retail workforce. Premium cosmetic brands continue to prioritise in-store expertise and certified make-up professionals, reinforcing the importance of formal qualifications and retail experience for career progression.

For Gauteng-based make-up artists considering relocation or future opportunities, the listing reflects the type of experience and skills currently demanded by national beauty retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a freelance make-up artist role?
No. The position is advertised as a permanent retail role.

Is formal training required?
Yes. A recognised make-up certificate is compulsory.

Does the role focus only on make-up?
The primary focus is make-up, but the role also supports fragrance sales when required.

Is retail experience essential?
Yes. A minimum of 3 years’ experience in cosmetics retail is required.

Is the position limited to residents of Cape Town?
The role is based at the V&A Waterfront, but applicants from other regions may apply if they can meet work and transport requirements.

What Happens Next

Applications are currently open, with the role listed as active as of 03 February 2026. Interested candidates will be assessed based on experience, qualifications and alignment with brand and retail requirements. Shortlisted applicants can expect further communication from the employer regarding next steps in the recruitment process.