General Manager – FMCG & Perishable Goods Operations

House of Aida Interior Design & Supply; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing Dubai-based trading company seeks a dynamic General Manager to oversee its FMCG and Perishable Goods Operations. This executive role involves providing leadership and strategic direction while managing operations, driving expansion strategies, and ensuring product quality. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in fresh produce trading, P&L management, and must possess strong connections in the HORECA sector.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years of experience in FMCG or fresh produce trading.
• Proven track record in P&L management.
• Connections in HORECA division required.

Responsibilities

• Lead operations for FMCG Division, ensuring seamless execution.
• Optimize supply chain efficiency and develop cost-saving strategies.
• Build strategic partnerships and maintain key client relationships.

Skills

Market analysis

Budget management

Sales growth

Leadership

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

Certifications in Supply Chain Management

Job description

General Manager – FMCG & Perishable Goods Operations

We are a fast-growing Dubai-based trading company specializing in the import and distribution of premium fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil across the UAE market. Our products cater to HORECA, retail, wholesale, and online channels. As we scale our operations, we are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and results-driven General Manager to lead our team and oversee all aspects of business operations, growth strategy, and performance management.

Role Overview

The General Manager (GM) will provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the company. This role is accountable for ensuring product quality, managing the fresh produce supply chain, and expanding FMCG operations. The GM will also build strategic partnerships, maintain profitability, and foster a high-performance team culture through operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities & Duties :

1. Operational & Business Management

• Lead end-to-end operations of the FMCG Division, focusing on procurement, warehousing, distribution, and sales to ensure market responsiveness.
• Ensure quality control and compliance with food safety standards (GAP, HACCP).
• Optimize supply chain efficiency (logistics, cold storage, wastage reduction).
• Develop cost-saving strategies without compromising quality.

Business Expansion & Strategy

• Identify new market opportunities (retail, wholesale, exports).
• Lead team expansion through hiring, training, and performance management.
• Build strategic partnerships with farmers, suppliers, and distributors.
• Implement technology solutions for inventory management and traceability.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Maintain key client relationships (supermarkets, restaurants, exporters).
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and long-term supply agreements.
• Resolve customer complaints and ensure high service levels.
• Manage cross-functional teams (procurement, logistics, sales, quality control).
• Foster a performance-driven culture with clear KPIs.
• Mentor and develop future leaders within the division.

Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, or related fields.
• Additional certifications (e.g., CSCP, Digital Marketing, Leadership) are advantageous.

Professional Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years in fresh produce trading, import/export, or FMCG.
• Proven track record in P&L management, business growth, and market expansion.
• Experience in multi-functional roles (Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance) preferred.
• Established connections in the HORECA sector, including high-end hotels, restaurants, and catering.

Business & Financial Acumen

• Strong understanding of market trends, competitor analysis, and consumer behavior.
• Ability to manage budgets, optimize costs, and grow revenue.
• Experience in strategic planning and execution.
• Deep knowledge of trade marketing, distributor management, and retail channels.
• Experience driving sales in urban and rural markets, familiar with modern trade and e-commerce.

Supply Chain & Operations

• Knowledge of demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics.
• Experience in manufacturing efficiency, procurement, and vendor management.
• Familiarity with lean / six sigma principles (preferred).

Marketing & Brand Management

• Ability to lead brand positioning, promotions, and digital marketing strategies.
• Experience in launching new products and innovation.
• Strong leadership skills to mentor senior managers.
• Excellent conflict resolution and negotiation skills.

Personal Attributes

• Result-oriented with high accountability.
• Adaptable to fast-changing market dynamics.
• Customer-centric with focus on sustainability and ethics.

Additional requirements include fluency in English (Arabic is a plus), holding a valid UAE driving license, and established connections in the HORECA sector.

Seniority level: Executive

Employment type: Full-time