Category Buyer – Product Development

Category Buyer – Product DevelopmentLocation: Abu Dhabi, UAEWe are supporting a leading regional organisation with the appointment of an experienced Category Buyer to join its growing Retail & Buying function.This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Buyer who is ready to take the next step in their career, managing the development and commercial performance of retail products across a diverse, multi-site operation.Key ResponsibilitiesManage the full product-development lifecycle from concept, product brief and design through sampling, approval, production and delivery.Develop commercially relevant product ranges across multiple retail categories.Work with relevant brand and licensing partners to ensure products meet required guidelines and approval standards.Identify, source and assess regional and international suppliers and manufacturers.Review samples, materials, colours, packaging and product quality before production.Coordinate product testing, certification and regulatory compliance.Negotiate costs, minimum order quantities, lead times, payment terms and delivery schedules.Manage range planning, open-to-buy, pricing, margins, purchase orders and product intake dates.Partner with Planning, Inventory, Design, Marketing, Visual Merchandising, Finance and Operations teams.Analyse sales, margins and inventory performance to optimise ranges and manage slow-moving stock.Support seasonal campaigns, activations and new product launches.Assist in guiding and developing junior team members.RequirementsApproximately 5–8 years of experience in retail buying and physical product development.Currently working as a Buyer, Senior Buyer, Category Buyer or Product Developer and ready to take on broader responsibility.Proven end-to-end product development experience, from initial concept through sampling, production and launch.Strong multi-category exposure, ideally including toys, gifts, licensed merchandise, lifestyle products, souvenirs or hardlines.Experience working directly with manufacturers, suppliers and product-development teams.Licensed-product or brand-approval experience is strongly preferred.Understanding of product testing, quality assurance and regulatory compliance would be advantageous.Strong commercial skills across sourcing, negotiation, costing, margins, budgeting and inventory.Confident communicator with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders and product-development timelines.Experience within a high-volume, multi-site or destination-led retail environment would be advantageous.Please note: Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.