Category Development Manager – UAE

About the role

Arla Foods is seeking a dynamic Market Category Expert to lead the development and localisation of category strategies across the UAE market. You will shape growth drivers, translate insights into actionable plans, and drive the dairy portfolio’s market presence.

Key responsibilities

• Define and localise medium‑to‑long‑term growth drivers that resonate with local customers, consumers and shoppers.
• Develop market‑level JTBDs and shape the future of the category.
• Provide insightful analysis as the go‑to market category expert and uncover new opportunities.
• Customise 4P category toolkits, trade decks and NPD sell‑ins for relevance and effectiveness.
• Deep‑dive into shopper behaviour and market trends to set strategic direction and propose innovations.
• Collaborate with the NRM team to optimise pricing and promotions for profitable, sustainable growth.
• Implement the Perfect Store methodology to enhance market presence and channel success.
• Monitor and evaluate performance of category initiatives, adjusting strategies to meet targets.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a market or category expert with a strategic growth mindset.
• Strong analytical abilities and a track record of turning insights into actionable plans.
• Excellent collaboration skills to work closely with cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Ability to adapt regional strategies to the local UAE market.

Required skills