Key Account Manager (FMCG Ethnic Foods & Instant Meals)

About the role

A recruitment agency is hiring on behalf of its client, a publicly listed global FMCG food company that supplies hot pot seasonings and fast-food products for the Haidilao brand. Its Dubai operation acts as the Middle East regional hub, serving retail channels across the GCC. The Key Account Manager based in Dubai leads and expands the retail footprint across major Modern Trade (KA) channels in the UAE, securing listing approvals, building account partnerships and driving sales of Instant Meals / Self-Heating Hot Pots, supported by Hot Pot Seasonings and Compound Condiments.

Key responsibilities

• Drive end-to-end listing and account setup with major UAE Key Accounts such as Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, Spinneys, Choithrams, Nesto and Viva, using local buyer relationships to negotiate trade terms, margins and listing fees and secure shelf space.
• Target both ethnic Asian retail chains and mainstream regional hypermarkets and supermarkets.
• Manage daily business operations for key accounts, ensuring product availability, stock replenishment and order fulfillment.
• Monitor sell-in and sell-out performance and run trade marketing campaigns, end-cap displays and promotions.
• Visit stores regularly to audit shelf placement, pricing, stock levels and competitor activity.
• Promote Instant Meals and Self-Heating Products as the core, with Hot Pot Base and Cooking Seasonings, adapting messaging and sampling to educate consumers.
• Manage trade spending budgets, promotional allowances, rebate calculations and aging receivables, reconcile account statements and collect payments on time.

Required profile

• Minimum 3-4 years of Key Account Management experience in FMCG packaged foods, condiments or ethnic food in the UAE.
• Proven network of buyers and category managers in top UAE retail chains, with a track record of bringing new FMCG SKUs into retail systems.
• Experience with Asian food, instant foods or seasoning products is a strong advantage.
• Deep knowledge of UAE modern trade commercial practices, contract negotiation, listing fees and margin calculations.
• Professional fluency in English and Arabic; Mandarin is a distinct advantage.
• Valid UAE driver's license and personal car.