Head of Category

About the role

We are seeking a Head of Category to lead global category and brand strategy across our portfolio. Reporting to senior leadership, you will shape product innovation, assortment planning and merchandising to drive growth in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.

Key responsibilities

• Implement long‑term global category and brand strategies aligned with vision and objectives.
• Drive product innovation and differentiation, anticipating customer needs and industry trends.
• Manage assortment planning to balance market demand, brand positioning and profitability.
• Optimize product mix and oversee global buying in collaboration with suppliers and regional teams.
• Develop merchandising strategies that respect brand guidelines while adapting to local preferences.
• Lead inventory allocation to ensure efficient distribution, reduce costs and minimise stock imbalances.
• Monitor key performance indicators, provide actionable insights to senior management and identify growth opportunities.
• Partner with cross‑functional divisions to ensure seamless execution of category and brand initiatives.
• Lead and develop a global category team, fostering innovation, accountability and future leadership.
• Identify emerging market trends and ensure the category’s offerings remain competitive.

Required profile

• Proven experience in category strategy, merchandising or product innovation.
• Strong cross‑functional leadership and collaboration skills.
• Ability to analyse data and translate insights into strategic actions.
• Excellent communication with senior stakeholders.
• Minimum of one month of relevant experience as indicated in the posting.

Required skills

• Cross‑functional Leadership
• Product Innovation
• Merchandising Strategies
• Inventory Allocation
• Team Leadership
• Performance Reporting
• Assortment Planning