Expansion Visual Merchandiser

IKEA; Dubai; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global home furnishings brand is looking for an experienced Expansion Visual Merchandiser Specialist in Dubai. You will enhance store layout and customer experience through innovative visual solutions that reflect local market needs. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 3 years in visual merchandising, strong design software skills like AutoCAD and REVIT, and a degree in Visual Merchandising or Store Design. This role requires excellent collaborative skills and a focus on sustainability.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar visual merchandising role, preferably within IKEA.
• Expert knowledge of Communication & Interior Design roles in a retail environment.
• Strong understanding of sustainability practices and health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Produce detailed commercial plans for assigned areas during planning and build-up.
• Support execution of business plan for new store growth.
• Ensure unique brand identity and optimal store layout.

Skills

Visual merchandising expertise

Market trend analysis

Communication skills

Design software proficiency

Education

Degree in Visual Merchandising or Store Design

Tools

AutoCAD

REVIT

Microsoft Office

Job description

Company Description

Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world’s most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organisation to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.

By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day.

Overview of the Role

The Expansion Visual Merchandiser Specialist is pivotal in positioning IKEA as the leader in home‑making solutions, driving sales and profitability by implementing globally standardised solutions with an understanding of local consumer behaviours. The role involves adapting designs and materials to fit the national needs, optimising store layouts for visual appeal, and maintaining brand identity. Success requires robust collaboration with teams across functions, excellent knowledge of visual merchandising tools, and a proactive approach to enhancing customer experience through innovative solutions.

What You Will Do

• Produce detailed commercial plans for assigned areas during planning and build‑up phases.
• Support the Expansion Visual Merchandising Manager in executing the country business plan for growth at new stores.
• Ensure uniqueness of IKEA’s brand identity in range presentation and store communication, positioning it above competitors.
• Develop solutions that reflect diverse style expressions and functions to stimulate customer interest in home furnishings.
• Support store layout development, ensuring optimal visual impact and supporting commercial priorities.
• Collaborate with service office colleagues to align on national priorities and develop comprehensive product presentation solutions.
• Utilise range presentation solutions relevant to national demographics and visitor needs.
• Demonstrate deep understanding of local market trends, customer needs, sustainability, and consumer behaviour.
• Analyse customer feedback and satisfaction data to enhance visitor experiences and satisfaction.
• Work with various specialists to ensure consistency in communication across new stores.
• Ensure implementation of store communication to create optimal visual impact and support commercial objectives.
• Coordinate with graphic and interior design specialists for holistic communication strategies.
• Provide specific support to stores for effective implementation of communication strategies.
• Share expert knowledge and solutions with visual merchandisers to improve their skills and competence.
• Develop and present plans using effective presentation skills.
• Utilise manuals and tools to maintain high‑level expertise and up‑to‑date knowledge.
• Mentor visual merchandising teams in new and existing stores to foster growth and competence.
• Coordinate with regional expansion efforts, including commercial planning and store opening phases.
• Support existing business practices and working methods, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Maintain overview of all regional expansion plans and contribute as needed.

Required Skills to Be Successful

• Proficiency in visual merchandising and interior design best practices.
• Proven ability to analyse market trends and consumer behaviour.
• Excellent communication and collaboration with cross‑functional teams.
• Skillful in using design software like AutoCAD and REVIT.

What Qualifies You for the Role

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar visual merchandising role, preferably within IKEA.
• Degree in Visual Merchandising or Store Design.
• Expert knowledge of Communication & Interior Design roles, particularly in a retail environment.
• Proficient in customer behaviour analysis and competitive market evaluation.
• Strong skills in AutoCAD, REVIT, Microsoft Office, presentation, and mentoring.
• Sound understanding of sustainability practices and health and safety regulations.

Qualification

We’re here to provide excellent service but a little help from you can ensure a five‑star candidate experience from start to finish. Before you click “apply”: Please read the job description carefully to ensure you can confidently demonstrate why this opportunity is right for you and take the time to put together a well‑crafted and personalised CV to further boost your visibility. Our global Talent Acquisition team members are all assigned to specific businesses to ensure that we make the best matches between talent and opportunities. We not only consider the requisite compatibility of skills and behaviours, but also how candidates align with our values of Respect, Integrity, Collaboration, and Excellence. As part of our candidate experience promise, we also want to make ourselves available to you throughout the application process. We make every effort to review and respond to every application.