Senior Category Development Manager

About the role

Arla Foods is seeking a senior, insight‑driven commercial marketer to lead the Cooking portfolio in the United Arab Emirates. You will shape the strategic direction of cooking cheese, creams and butter, turning consumer and market insights into profitable growth.

Key responsibilities

• Define the category vision and growth agenda for the Cooking portfolio across UAE channels and shopper segments.
• Lead the annual category planning process, aligning regional strategies with local market priorities.
• Develop and execute channel, assortment, pricing, promotion and activation strategies in partnership with Sales, Customer Growth and NRM.
• Drive innovation and new product development from opportunity identification to commercial launch.
• Monitor penetration, market share and profitability, influencing senior stakeholders to achieve targets.

Required profile

• Proven experience in category development, commercial marketing or brand management within FMCG or dairy sectors.
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate consumer, shopper and market data into actionable plans.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, capable of influencing senior leadership.
• Track record of delivering growth, market share gains and successful product launches.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact portfolio in a dynamic regional market.
• Collaborative environment with cross‑functional teams.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.