Manager In-Store Operations | Ad Operation

Manager, In-Store Operations | MAF Retail | Dubai The Manager, In-Store Operations is responsible for driving the operational excellence and commercial impact of the in-store retail media network across UAE stores. This role ensures that all in-store media assets—including digital screens, print media, and emerging formats—are strategically deployed, optimized, and maintained to maximize revenue, enhance the shopper experience, and strengthen the brand’s presence in-store.The Manager leads the translation of retail media strategies into actionable in-store execution plans tailored to the UAE market, aligning operations with business priorities, optimizing asset utilization, and ensuring seamless campaign delivery. By fostering strong collaboration with commercial and store teams, vendors, and internal stakeholders, the role ensures that the in-store media network consistently delivers measurable commercial value and operational efficiency. Role Details – Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:In-Store Retail Media Operations – UAEExecute the operational strategy for the in-store retail media network in UAE stores, in line with the broader retail media roadmap set by the Senior Manager.Manage the deployment, utilization, and maintenance of in-store media assets within the UAE, ensuring high standards and reliability.Identify local opportunities to enhance the in-store media offering in UAE stores, including new formats, placements, or technology improvements.Work closely with UAE-based sales teams to ensure media solutions align with advertiser demand and commercial priorities.Support the integration of in-store media initiatives with local retail campaigns and seasonal retail calendar activities.Stakeholder & Vendor ManagementAct as the operational point of contact for in-store retail media in UAE stores.Maintain strong working relationships with UAE store operations, commercial teams, and retail marketing to ensure smooth campaign execution. Oversee local vendors responsible for operating, maintaining, and commercializing in-store media assets, ensuring adherence to operational standards, brand guidelines, and customer experience expectations.Support vendor collaboration to optimize inventory usage, operational efficiency, and introduce innovative solutions locally.Campaign Execution & Operational ExcellenceEnsure flawless execution of in-store media campaigns in UAE stores, maintaining high quality and operational consistency.Implement governance processes, SLAs, and operational performance tracking to ensure campaign reliability.Coordinate with UAE store teams, IT, maintenance, and product teams to support installation, troubleshooting, and ongoing network performance.Maintain the UAE in-store media content calendar, ensuring alignment with local campaigns and advertiser commitments.Conduct regular audits and network checks within UAE stores to verify functionality, compliance, and intended brand experience.Performance & MeasurementPartner with data and analytics teams to track campaign performance and operational metrics within UAE.Provide insights and recommendations to optimize in-store media operations and improve advertiser outcomes locally.Develop UAE-specific case studies demonstrating the impact and commercial value of in-store media activations.Team Development & Human Capital Support the Senior Manager in monitoring and managing vendor performance, providing feedback, and reporting on operational progress.Mentor team members to build local capabilities and strengthen talent within UAE operations.Identify training needs, facilitate development programs, and implement on-the-job learning initiatives to enhance operational skills.Ensure compliance with corporate policies and procedures at the UAE market level.Definition of Success Successful rollout of in-store retail media across all stores in the UAE.High network reliability and operational excellence across in-store media assets.Tim Strong alignment with UAE commercial and store teams to enable channel growth.High inventory utilization and flawless on time campaign execution.Continuous innovation to enhance formats, performance, and revenue.Other Context (if applicable):N/AFunctional/Technical CompetenciesProven experience in managing end-to-end in-store media operations, including deployment, scheduling, execution, and inventory optimization across multiple stores and markets.Ability to manage third-party operators and technology partners, define SLAs, monitor performance, and ensure operational and commercial alignment with business objectives.Strong capability to leverage campaign and retail data to measure impact, generate actionable insights, and continuously improve media performance and revenue outcomes.Demonstrated skill in aligning commercial, store operations, marketing, product, and compliance teams to ensure seamless execution, operational excellence, and channel growth.Qualification, Experience & Skills:Minimum Qualifications/educationBachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, Economics, Communication, or any other related fieldMaster’s Degree in related field is preferredMinimum experience6+ years of working experience in advertising operations or retail media, with exposure to managing in-store media activations across multiple locations or markets.Proven experience with third-party ad servers, content management tools, or DSP platforms.Strong understanding of in-store retail media formats, digital screens, and video-based advertising; experience in digital media is a plus.Experience in eCommerce or omnichannel retail environments is advantageous.SkillsExpertise in content management tools, creative specifications, and technical market standards for CMS and DSP.Strong knowledge of in-store video formats and digital media deployment.Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ability to consolidate and analyze multiple data points.Highly organized, self-motivated, and proactive in learning new skills.Excellent time management and project coordination skills, with the flexibility to travel as required.Exceptional English communication skills (speaking, reading, writing); Arabic language skills are a plus.Strong ability to work cross-functionally and align internal stakeholders to drive operational excellence and channel growth.