The Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing category strategies that drive profitable growth and optimize the overall performance of assigned product categories. This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs within the UAE market.

Location- Abu Dhabi, UAE

Salary- 20,000 AED

Position Reports to Procurement Manager

Key Responsibilities:

• Category Strategy Development:
  • Conduct market research and analysis to identify market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer needs within assigned categories.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies, including assortment planning, pricing strategies, and promotional activities.
  • Set and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for each category, such as sales volume, market share, gross margin, and inventory turnover.
• Supplier Management:
  • Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with potential suppliers to secure competitive pricing, favourable terms, and consistent product quality.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
  • Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and address any issues promptly.
• Product Lifecycle Management:
  • Introduce new products to the market and manage the lifecycle of existing products, including product launches, phase-outs, and promotions.
  • Monitor product performance and make necessary adjustments to assortment and pricing strategies.
• Demand Planning & Forecasting:
  • Collaborate with sales, marketing, and operations teams to forecast demand and ensure adequate inventory levels.
  • Monitor inventory levels closely and adjust orders as needed to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Cost Control & Profitability:
  • Analyse category performance and identify opportunities to improve profitability, such as cost reduction initiatives and margin enhancement strategies.
• Data Analysis & Reporting:
  • Collect, analyse, and interpret data to track category performance, identify trends, and make informed business decisions.
  • Prepare regular reports on category performance for management review.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in Frozen or Dry foods Category Management, Product Management, or a similar role within the HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, and Catering) or Wholesale industry.
  • Essential: Proven experience in the UAE market is a must.
  • Strong preference for candidates with a background in purchasing and procurement.
• Skills:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, business intelligence software).
  • Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
  • Project management skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent time-management and organizational skills.