Category Manager - Private Label

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS); United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading procurement institution in the United Arab Emirates is seeking a qualified individual to lead the development and execution of category strategies that enhance sales and product innovation. The ideal candidate must have over 10 years of experience in private label, including 5 years in a leadership position, and demonstrated success in retail buying within FMCG. This is a full-time role offering opportunities to manage supplier relationships and contribute to company growth.

Qualifications

• 10 years in private label with 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in retail buying within FMCG is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of category strategies.
• Identify and engage suppliers to build strong relationships.
• Manage procurement activities and negotiate supplier contracts.
• Drive innovation, quality, and commercial success in categories.
• Monitor product performance and recommend actions based on insights.

Skills

Strong understanding of category management

Private Label Development

Procurement and Negotiation Skills

Commercial and Financial Acumen

Project & Stakeholder Management

Data analysis

Microsoft Excel

Communication Skills

Leadership

Tools

ERP systems

Category management tools

Job description

Who we are:

GMG is a global well-being company retailing, distributing and manufacturing a portfolio of leading international and home-grown brands across sport, everyday goods, health and beauty, properties and logistics sectors. Under the ownership and management of the Baker family for over 45 years, GMG is a valued partner of choice for the world's most successful and respected brands in the well-being sector. Working across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, GMG has introduced more than 120 brands across 12 countries. These include notable home-grown brands such as Sun & Sand Sports, Dropkick, Super Care Pharmacy, Farm Fresh, Klassic, and international brands like Nike, Columbia, Converse, Timberland, Vans, Mama Sita's, and McCain.

Role Summary:

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.

Responsibilities:

1) Supplier Management:

• Identify, meet, assess, and engage suppliers to build strong, collaborative relationships.
• Motivate and manage suppliers to deliver on performance, quality, and innovation goals.

2) Procurement & Contracting:

• Initiate and manage procurement activities and projects within the assigned category.
• Negotiate and define supplier contracts, ensuring favourable terms, compliance, and performance monitoring.

3) Strategic Category Management:

• 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.

4) Performance & Forecasting:

• 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.

5) Market & Data Insights:

• 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.

People Management:

The incumbent is responsible for setting clear objectives and performance targets in collaboration with team members, ensuring alignment with overall organizational goals. This role involves actively mentoring, guiding, and providing direction to the team to cultivate skill development, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. The incumbent applies structured performance management practices to monitor progress, troubleshoot issues, and drive the team towards achieving periodic KPIs. Through strategic oversight and regular feedback, the incumbent fosters a results‑oriented environment, empowering the team to meet and exceed established benchmarks while supporting both individual and collective growth.

Functional / Technical Competencies:

• Strong understanding 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 behaviour.
• 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

Experience:

10 years in private label. Including 5 years in leadership role. Proven experience in retail buying within FMCG is essential.

Department / Category Management:

Locations: Dubai
Employment type: Full‑time
Division: Everyday Goods
Contract Type: Full‑time