Category Manager

Category ManagerCompany OverviewBFL Group is one of the world’s leading off-price retailers of fashion and homeware. With headquarters based in United Arab Emirates, we serve over markets across the region and Southeast Asia.Our goal is to delight customers and entice them back with the promise of exceptional pieces that excite – all at up to 80% off the original retail price for fashion designer brands. Our unique “Treasure Hunt” model ensures there is always something new to explore, desire and discover within our stores. Our customers walk out with new items every time they visit any of our stores.Role Purpose: The Category Manager is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and performance of specific product categories within the business. This role involves managing the product lifecycle, from trend identification and assortment planning to vendor relationships, pricing strategies, and inventory management. The Category Manager ensures that the category's offerings align with customer preferences, business goals, and seasonal trends, driving sales and profitability. By closely analyzing market data, customer insights, and competitor activities, the Category Manager optimizes product selection and placement to maximize category growth. He / She will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution and delivery of the category strategy, contributing to the overall success of the retail business.Key responsibilities:Achieving Sales TargetsDevelop and implement strategic plans to achieve sales targets for assigned product categories, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives. Drive ProfitabilityOptimize pricing strategies, margins, and promotional activities to maximize profitability while maintaining competitive positioning in the market. Oversee Buying FunctionsLead the buying process, including assortment planning, vendor selection, and inventory management to ensure a balanced and attractive product assortment. NegotiationsNegotiate favorable terms with suppliers and vendors to secure competitive pricing, terms, and conditions, while maintaining strong vendor relationships. Vendor RelationshipsBuild and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and suppliers, fostering partnerships that support mutual growth and innovation. Category OptimizationContinuously analyse market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities for category expansion and optimization. Improve Stock TurnsImplement effective inventory management strategies to improve stock turns, reduce excess inventory, and minimize stockouts. Cross-functional CollaborationWork closely with marketing, operations, and finance teams to align category strategies with overall business objectives and drive integrated marketing campaigns. Market AnalysisConduct regular market research and analysis to stay informed of industry trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences, utilizing insights to drive decision-making. Team LeadershipProvide leadership and mentorship to category management team members, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.Proven experience as a Category Manager or similar role in the retail industry, with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales performance data, market research, and financial reports.Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.Strong leadership skills: should have managed a team of 5 or more.Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute effective category strategies.Experience in vendor management, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with ERP and retail management software is a plus.Knowledge of fashion trends, consumer behaviour, and competitive landscape in the Middle East market.If you think you are fit for this job position, then apply right away. You are steps away from joining a Great Place to Work© and we would love to meet you soon!