Category Manager - Make Up

About the role

The Category Manager supports the Head of Commercial in developing category strategies that maximise sales and gross margin, while managing inventory objectives for specific brands. The role covers strategic planning for growth across several markets, manages financial dimensions of up to 100m AED+ across five countries and oversees a small team. Success is measured through stock availability, brand mix, sell-through rates and performance surveys.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, implement and deliver category plans covering range reviews, promotions, pricing and stock in line with commercial strategy and financial objectives.
• Work with the Marketing team on promotion plans that follow legislation and brand guidelines and drive profitable sales.
• Evaluate promotions, take action where needed and share best practice with peers and stakeholders.
• Work with Exclusive Brands to develop and offer exclusive products and ranges.
• Coordinate with the planning team on merchandising strategies, store availability and slow-moving stock.
• Identify new product opportunities that are competitively priced and meet customer needs.
• Manage and review pricing to stay competitive and maximise profitability.
• Help the planning team meet base sales and promotional forecasts.
• Build internal relationships with cross-functional teams and external relationships with suppliers and partners, using negotiation to secure the best terms.
• Keep up to date on category products, competitors and market activity.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum 6-7 years of experience as a buyer in a retail environment.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a cosmetics industry buying role.
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong organisational and time management skills.

Required skills

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• Commercial awareness and creativity to improve category performance.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks.