Job Description
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.
