Buyer

European Association of Zoos and Aquaria; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Miral Experiences is seeking a Category Manager to lead end-to-end management of retail product categories across its Abu Dhabi portfolio. You will develop, source and deliver compelling ranges while collaborating with planning, compliance and marketing teams.

You will build strong supplier relationships, monitor performance and drive gross margin, with a focus on licensing, IP brands and regional opportunities. Fluency in English is required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of experience in retail buying and product development.
• Experience managing products through the full lifecycle, from concept to market.
• Strong supplier and vendor management experience.
• Experience analyzing sales and inventory data for commercial decisions.
• Budgeting, gross profit management and open-to-buy planning knowledge.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and retail systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end development and execution of retail product ranges.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, vendors and licensing partners.
• Identify new product opportunities and sourcing solutions to improve performance.
• Collaborate with Merchandising Planning on buy plans, forecasting and inventory.
• Monitor sales, stock and margin targets to drive commercial results.
• Support pricing, product setup, visual merchandising andPO processes.
• Ensure products meet UAE regulatory, testing and compliance requirements.
• Work cross-functionally with Planning, Inventory, Compliance, Finance, Operations and Marketing.
• Contribute to category growth strategies and long-term objectives.

Skills

Retail buying

Product development

Supplier management

Inventory analysis

Budgeting & open-to-buy

Excel

Stakeholder management

Communication

English fluency

Tools

Retail systems

Job description

Join us at Miral Experiences!

Miral Experiences is a region’s leader in the management and operation of world‑class, award‑winning immersive attractions and experiences across Abu Dhabi. Our diverse portfolio includes some of the most iconic entertainment and leisure destinations, including Ferrari World Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, CLYMB™ Yas Island Abu Dhabi, and TeamLab. Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, as well as cultural treasures like Qasr Al Watan.

We specialize in crafting unique experiences that cater to all tastes and ages, delivering a seamless blend of thrills, joy and discovery. Our attractions are designed to ignite the imagination and create unforgettable memories for visitors from around the world. Whether you're seeking excitement, relaxation or cultural enrichment, we offer something for everyone.

What You’ll Do

As a Category Manager, you will be responsible for the end‑to‑end management of your product categories, ensuring the right products are developed, sourced and delivered to meet guest expectations and business objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing the development and execution of retail product ranges within assigned categories.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, vendors and licensing partners.
• Identifying new product opportunities, market trends and sourcing solutions to enhance category performance.
• Collaborating closely with Merchandise Planning teams on buy plans, forecasting, inventory management and intake schedules.
• Monitoring sales, stock performance and margin targets to drive commercial results.
• Supporting pricing, product setup, visual merchandising standards and purchase order processes.
• Ensuring products meet UAE regulatory, testing and compliance requirements.
• Working cross‑functionally with Planning, Inventory, Compliance, Finance, Operations and Marketing teams.
• Supporting events, seasonal activations, annual pass initiatives and other commercial opportunities.
• Contributing to category growth strategies and long‑term business objectives.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Experience

• Minimum 7 years of experience in retail buying and product development.
• Proven experience managing products through the full lifecycle, from concept to market.
• Strong supplier and vendor management experience.
• Experience analyzing sales and inventory data to make commercial decisions.
• Knowledge of budgeting, gross profit management and open‑to‑buy planning.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship‑building skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and retail systems.

Preferred Experience

• Experience within theme parks, attractions, entertainment, destination retail or leisure industries.
• Experience working with licensed brands, intellectual property (IP) and character merchandise.
• Experience working with regional or international brands across the GCC.

Skills & Attributes

• Commercially minded and results‑driven.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Proactive and adaptable in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Collaborative team player with strong relationship‑building capabilities.
• Fluent in English; additional languages are an advantage.

Shape the Future With Us

At Miral Experiences, we don’t just create world‑class destinations – we create unforgettable memories for our guests and remarkable careers for our people.

From theme parks and attractions to guest services and behind‑the‑scenes roles, every member of our team plays a part in delivering exceptional experiences. We’re driven by passion, powered by innovation and committed to excellence in everything we do.

We’re looking for passionate, driven and talented individuals who are ready to grow, lead and make a difference. No matter your background or expertise, there’s a place for you at Miral Experiences.