Category Senior Manager

Job description: Job Purpose The Senior Category Manager leads Floward’s category management strategy within the assigned country, ensuring strong commercial performance, local market relevance, and customer satisfaction. This role oversees assortment planning, supplier partnerships, pricing, and promotional activities while aligning country execution with central category strategies. The position requires balancing profitability and growth with Floward’s premium brand identity and customer-centric approach. The Senior Category Manager also plays a key role in leading a team, collaborating with central functions (procurement, supply chain, marketing, design, operations), and representing category needs at the country leadership level. Key Responsibilities Category Strategy & Market Leadership Develop and execute category plans tailored to local market dynamics while aligning with central category vision Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify customer needs, trends, and competitive opportunities Translate insights into product assortment, pricing, and promotional initiatives Portfolio & Assortment Management Lead the design and execution of a well-balanced product portfolio, ensuring premium positioning and market competitiveness Regularly evaluate product performance and recommend additions, removals, or adjustments Collaborate with online merchandising and design teams to optimize product presentation across digital and offline touchpoints Supplier & Partner Management Build and manage strategic relationships with local and international suppliers, securing favorable commercial terms and service levels Negotiate pricing, contracts, and supply agreements to maximize profitability Ensure supplier compliance with Floward’s quality and service standards Financial & Commercial Planning Own category P&L at the country level, ensuring revenue, margin, and profitability targets are met Lead pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with profitability Oversee forecasting, demand planning, and stock management to reduce risk of shortages or overstock Team Leadership & Development Lead, coach, and develop Category Officers and Specialists within the country team Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration Ensure team alignment with both central category and country commercial objectives Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with marketing to deliver campaigns aligned with category objectives and local customer needs Work closely with supply chain and operations to ensure smooth execution of assortment and promotions Provide input to central category leadership on country performance, challenges, and opportunities Category Expansion & Innovation Identify and lead new category opportunities based on local market trends and customer insights Work with central design and product development teams to introduce innovative offerings Drive pilot initiatives for new product launches, measuring results and scaling successful concepts Skills and Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field; Master’s preferred. Experience: 8+ years in category management, buying, or merchandising (preferably in premium, luxury, or occasion-driven businesses). Proven track record in managing category P&L, supplier negotiations, and assortment planning. Experience in GCC markets and strong awareness of local customer behavior. Leadership experience in managing and developing teams. Technical Skills: Strong financial and commercial acumen with experience in forecasting and P&L management. Advanced Excel and data analysis skills; experience with ERP/category management tools. Strong presentation and communication skills with senior stakeholders. Profile description:About Floward :  Websitehttps://www.floward.co