Category Manager

Managing the development and execution of retail product ranges within assigned categories. Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and licensing partners. Identifying new product opportunities, market trends, and sourcing solutions to enhance category performance. Collaborating closely with Merchandise Planning teams on buy plans, forecasting, inventory management, and intake schedules. Monitoring sales, stock performance, and margin targets to drive commercial results. Supporting pricing, product setup, visual merchandising standards, and purchase order processes. Ensuring products meet UAE regulatory, testing, and compliance requirements. Working cross-functionally with Planning, Inventory, Compliance, Finance, Operations, and Marketing teams. Supporting events, seasonal activations, annual pass initiatives, and other commercial opportunities. Contributing to category growth strategies and long-term business objectives.

Desired Candidate Profile

Essential Experience Minimum 7 years of experience in retail buying and product development. Proven experience managing products through the full lifecycle, from concept to market. Strong supplier and vendor management experience. Experience analyzing sales and inventory data to make commercial decisions. Knowledge of budgeting, gross profit management, and open-to-buy planning. Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and retail systems. Preferred Experience Experience within theme parks, attractions, entertainment, destination retail, or leisure industries. Experience working with licensed brands, intellectual property (IP), and character merchandise. Experience working with regional or international brands across the GCC. Skills & Attributes Commercially minded and results-driven. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Proactive and adaptable in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. Collaborative team player with strong relationship-building capabilities. Fluent in English; additional languages are an advantage.