Cheese Category Manager

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Cheese Category Manager to lead the Cheese & Deli business for a leading retail group in Dubai. The role will oversee multiple outlets, drive sales growth and ensure operational excellence while delivering a premium customer experience.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic business plan for the Cheese & Deli category, defining growth objectives and commercial targets.
• Manage end‑to‑end operations across all stores, ensuring consistent execution, inventory control and product availability.
• Own SKU management, optimise assortment, visibility and space productivity.
• Design and execute merchandising strategies to enhance product presentation and conversion.
• Source, select and control quality of cheese and deli products, managing the full product lifecycle.
• Negotiate with vendors on pricing, terms and supply agreements.
• Drive sales through pricing, promotions, forecasting and margin optimisation.
• Analyse sales data and market trends to identify growth opportunities.
• Recruit, train and lead store teams, setting performance objectives and fostering a customer‑focused culture.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and regulatory standards.
• Lead menu development for deli offerings and apply wine‑food pairing expertise to boost upselling.
• Plan and execute tastings, events and community activations to build brand awareness.

Required profile

• Minimum 8 years of experience in category or business management within food retail, preferably cheese and deli.
• Proven track record of driving sales growth and managing multi‑store operations.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships.
• Excellent analytical abilities with a data‑driven approach to decision making.
• Leadership experience in recruiting, training and developing retail teams.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and compliance.

Required skills

• Menu Development
• SKU Management
• Wine and Food Pairing
• Merchandising Strategies
• Food Safety Standards
• Vendor Negotiations