Category Manager - Private Label

Gulf Marketing Group (GMG Group); Dubai; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

GMG is searching for a leader in private label product development to drive category strategies that enhance sales and profitability. The role requires deep knowledge of retail buying in FMCG and a proven track record in supplier relationship management.

Ideal candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in the field, including 5 in a leadership role. Responsibilities include negotiating supplier contracts, conducting market analyses, and overseeing product performance to ensure alignment with business goals.

Qualifications

• 10 years in private label with 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in retail buying within FMCG.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end category management.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of category strategies.
• Manage supplier relationships to achieve performance goals.
• Conduct market analysis and inform assortment strategies.

Skills

Leadership in private label

Negotiation skills

FMCG retail buying experience

Category management

Supplier relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or related field

Master's degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Role Overview

The incumbent will lead the development and execution of category strategies that drive sales, profitability, and product innovation. He will be responsible for sourcing and managing a portfolio of private label products that deliver outstanding quality and value to our customers. Working closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders, Also, will leverage market insights, commercial acumen, and strong negotiation skills to optimize performance and maintain a competitive edge. This role is pivotal in shaping the private label offering and ensuring it aligns with the company’s overall growth and brand objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, meet, assess, and engage suppliers to build strong, collaborative relationships.
• Motivate and manage suppliers to deliver on performance, quality, and innovation goals.
• Initiate and manage procurement activities and projects within the assigned category.
• Negotiate and define supplier contracts, ensuring favorable terms, compliance, and performance monitoring.
• Own and actively manage the category by driving innovation, quality, and commercial success.
• Develop and implement category plans that support growth and profitability objectives.
• Set and track supplier goals and KPIs to ensure alignment with company expectations.
• Produce accurate business forecasts, plans, and recommendations based on key performance drivers.
• Monitor product performance and market dynamics, recommending corrective actions where needed.
• Prepare and deliver insightful presentations for internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Conduct market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive positioning.
• Utilize data to inform decisions on assortment, pricing, and promotional strategies.
• Continuously assess and integrate additional information sources to strengthen decision‑making.
• Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned by management as necessary to support business needs.

Key Skills & Experience

• 10 years in private label. Including 5 years in leadership role. Proven experience in retail buying within FMCG is essential.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business or any other related field. Master’s degree is preferred.
• Strong understanding of end‑to‑end category management (assortment planning, pricing, promotion, and lifecycle management).
• Private Label Development (product sourcing, supplier collaboration, and private label product development from concept to shelf).
• Procurement and Negotiation Skills (supplier selection, contract negotiation, and cost management).
• Commercial and Financial Acumen (P&L statements, budgets, margins, and make data‑driven commercial decisions).
• Analyzing market trends, competitor activity, and customer behavior.
• Project & Stakeholder Management and Time Management.
• Data analysis, reporting, and forecasting.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with ERP systems and category management tools.
• Supplier Relationship Management.
• Communication Skills, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Leadership, and People Management