Category Development Manager – Dubai

About the role

Arla Foods is seeking a dynamic Category Development Manager to lead the growth of its dairy portfolio in the UAE. You will translate market insights into strategic actions, localise regional strategies and drive innovation across the category.

Key responsibilities

• Define and localise medium‑to‑long‑term growth drivers that resonate with UAE consumers and shoppers.
• Develop market‑level job‑to‑be‑done (JTBD) frameworks shaping the future of the category.
• Provide expert analysis, uncover new opportunities and act as the go‑to market category specialist.
• Customise 4P toolkits, trade decks and new‑product‑development sell‑ins for relevance and impact.
• Deep‑dive into shopper behaviour, market trends and consumer insights 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 performance of category initiatives and adjust strategies to meet targets.

Required profile

• Proven experience in category management or market development within FMCG, preferably dairy.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering growth.
• Excellent stakeholder management and collaborative skills.
• Ability to translate data into actionable strategies.

Required skills

• Analytical ability to interpret shopper behaviour and market trends.
• Knowledge of pricing, promotion and trade‑deck development.
• Familiarity with the Perfect Store methodology.

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape category strategy for a leading global dairy brand.
• Collaborative environment focused on innovation and excellence.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.