Senior Category Manager – Retail Shared Services

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Category Manager to join the Retail Shared Services team at Miral Experiences. Reporting to the Retail Buying Director, you will lead the development and performance of merchandise categories across our world‑class attractions in Abu Dhabi. The role offers the opportunity to shape the merchandise strategy for iconic attractions such as Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and Yas Waterworld.

Key responsibilities

• Own and drive the end‑to‑end development of assigned merchandise categories, from concept through production and launch.
• Manage IP design submissions, sample approvals and production processes via online licensing portals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors, ensuring compliance with UAE regulatory, testing and audit requirements.
• Collaborate with Merchandise Planning, Inventory and Retail Shared Services teams on buy plans, pricing, visual merchandising standards and purchase order management.
• Control category budgets, monitor open‑to‑buy, cost of goods, freight costs and gross‑profit targets.
• Analyse sales and inventory data to identify growth opportunities, optimise product performance and manage slow‑moving stock.
• Provide regular performance reporting and commercial reviews to senior leadership.
• Identify market trends, customer preferences and sourcing opportunities to support strategic planning and annual business initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience in senior category or merchandise management within a retail environment.
• Strong track record of product development and supplier relationship management.
• Deep understanding of UAE regulatory and compliance standards for consumer goods.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable commercial decisions.
• Effective communication and collaboration across cross‑functional teams.
• You should be comfortable working in a fast‑paced, multi‑site environment and have a passion for delivering memorable guest experiences.

Required skills

• Product development lifecycle management
• Budget and financial performance management
• Supplier negotiation and contract management
• Data analysis and reporting
• Knowledge of UAE regulatory compliance for merchandise