Category Manager (Fruits & Vegetables)

Grandiose; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Grandiose in the UAE seeks a Category Manager for Fruits & Vegetables to oversee operations, sales and management across supermarkets and hypermarkets. You will lead sourcing, quality control, storage, distribution and pricing strategies for fresh produce.

Responsibilities include building supplier networks, forecasting demand, managing a team, ensuring regulatory compliance and delivering growth in a competitive market. Strong leadership and market insight are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7+ years of FMCG Retail or Fresh produce distribution experience.
• Graduate or postgraduate degree in any discipline.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for fresh fruits & vegetables across UAE stores.
• Oversee sourcing, storage, packaging and distribution of produce.
• Manage supplier relationships and ensure reliable supply.
• Maintain strict quality control for freshness and safety.
• Monitor inventory to minimize waste and meet demand.
• Drive sales and marketing initiatives to grow market share.
• Build strong relationships with customers including restaurants and retailers.
• Oversee budgeting, cost control, and revenue growth.
• Recruit and lead a team of staff and supervisors.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and licenses.
• Stay informed on market trends and competitor activity.
• Optimize logistics, transportation and distribution networks.
• Develop contingency plans for supply disruptions and recalls.
• Leverage technology for inventory, sales data and analytics.

Skills

Inventory management

Sales forecasting

Team leadership

Price & margin optimization

Quality control

Supply chain management

Market research

Reporting & analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree

Job description

The role of a Category Manager (Fruits & Vegetables) involves overseeing the operations, sales, and overall management of a business that deals with retails of fresh Fruits & Vegetables within all Supermarkets/Hypermarkets across the UAE

Across the Stores Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

• Inventory management - Availability, Visibility & Variety
• Sales analysis and forecasting
• Team management
• Price and Margin optimization

Key Responsibilities:

• Business Strategy: Develop and implement a strategic business plan that defines the company's goals, growth targets, and market positioning within the vegetable and fruits vertical.
• Operations Management: Oversee the daily operations of the business, including sourcing, quality control, storage, packaging, and distribution of fresh produce.
• Supply Chain Management: Manage the supply chain to ensure a consistent and reliable source of fresh vegetables and fruits. This includes building relationships with suppliers, growers, and distributors.
• Quality Control: Implement and maintain strict quality control standards to ensure the freshness, safety, and quality of the produce.
• Inventory Management: Monitor and manage inventory levels to minimize waste and spoilage while meeting customer demand.
• Sales and Marketing: Develop and execute sales and marketing strategies to increase market share, expand customer base, and promote the business. This may include pricing strategies, promotions, and branding.
• Customer Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, which may include our nearby restaurants, grocery shops, and individual consumers.
• Financial Management: Oversee the financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue growth. Ensure the business operates within budget and is financially sustainable.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and manage a team of employees, including areas leaders, sales representatives, and warehouse personnel if necessary.
• Compliance and Regulation: Ensure that the business complies with all relevant food safety and health regulations, permits, and licenses.
• Market Research: Stay updated on market trends, customer preferences, and competitors in the vegetable and fruits industry.
• Logistics and Distribution: Manage the logistics and distribution network, including transportation, storage facilities, and delivery schedules along with other business subsidiaries.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks, such as supply chain disruptions, price fluctuations, or market challenges.
• Customer Service: Address customer inquiries, feedback, and concerns promptly to maintain a positive reputation and build customer loyalty.
• Product Development: Explore opportunities for expanding product offerings, such as organic produce, pre-cut and packaged items, or value-added products.
• Reporting and Analysis: Monitor and analyze key performance metrics and generate reports for senior management, identifying areas for improvement and growth.
• Crisis Management: Develop and implement contingency plans to address unexpected challenges, such as product recalls or adverse weather conditions affecting supply.
• Technology Adoption: Stay current with technology trends in the industry, including software for inventory management, sales, and data analysis, and implement appropriate solutions.

Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience:

• At least 7+ years of experience in FMCG Retail or Fresh product (fruit& Vegetable distribution) industry.
• Must be a graduate or masters in any discipline