Commercial Manager (for Spinneys)

Spinneys, UAE’s leading premium food retailer, is looking for a team player, with a 'can-do' attitude, an eye for detail and able to apply their skills in a prompt & practical manner as COMMERCIAL MANAGER.ORGANIZATIONAL FIT This person reports directly to the GENERAL MANAGER COMMERCIAL. This role is an individual professional in the retail industry who is responsible for managing a specific group of products, or category. Their primary goal is to optimize the category's performance, including sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction, to contribute to the company's overall success.Key Responsibilities Strategic Planning: Developing and executing a long-term strategy for their assigned product category to drive growth and profitability. This includes setting objectives, defining the category's role within the business, and creating a plan to achieve desired outcomes.Market and Consumer Analysis: Conducting in-depth research to understand market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activities. This data is used to identify growth opportunities, spot market gaps, and tailor the product assortment to customer needs.Product Assortment and Management: Deciding which products to include or remove from the category. This involves product selection, managing the product lifecycle (from new products to discontinuation), and ensuring the right mix of products is available to meet customer demand.Pricing and Promotion: Developing and implementing pricing strategies and promotional plans to maximize profitability while remaining competitive. This includes coordinating with marketing teams on campaigns and special offers.Vendor and Supplier Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and vendors. They are responsible for negotiating contracts, pricing, and terms to secure favorable deals and ensure the timely delivery of products.Inventory and Merchandising: Working closely with supply chain and merchandising teams to manage inventory levels, prevent shortages or overstock, and create effective in-store displays and layouts (planograms) to optimize product visibility and sales.Performance Monitoring: Analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, margin, and stock turnover to evaluate the category's performance and identify areas for improvement. They also prepare regular reports for senior management.REQUIRED experience and QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or a related field.Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Category Manager or Buyer, or in a similar commercial role within a retail environment. Proven track record of successful product selection, negotiation, and achieving sales/profit targets.Strong understanding of retail operations, supply chain management, and inventory control.Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.Proficiency in data analysis and experience with retail management software (e.g., ERP systems, inventory management platforms).Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Willingness to travel as required for supplier visits and trade shows.Passion for retail and a genuine interest in product development and trends.Commercially astute with a strong business acumen.Proactive and results oriented.Adaptable and able to respond quickly to changing market conditions.Creative thinker with an innovative approach to product sourcing.