Category Manager - Greeting Cards & Gifting

Overview

1. Product & Category Management

• Plan, source, and manage the full range of Greeting cards, gift accessories, wrapping papers, balloons, partyware, and seasonal gifts.
• Project manage selected products to be uploaded to website and other digital affiliate channels.
• Analyse sales data to pick winners, discontinue poor performers, and forecast what sells when.
• Maintain a balanced collection across all occasions (Birthday, Wedding, Baby, Ramadan, Christmas, Corporate, etc.).
• Manage photoshoots and advertising tasks relating to the category
• Improve product margins through smart buying, bundle-building, and pricing tactics.

2. Supplier & Sourcing

• Identify new suppliers locally and internationally.
• Negotiate MOQs, lead times, costing, and payment terms.
• Manage artwork approvals, sampling, and production timelines.
• Build long-term relationships with reliable manufacturers.

3. Inventory & Operations

• Maintain optimal stock levels — not too little (lost sales) and not too much (dust collectors).
• Coordinate with warehouse and logistics on inbound shipments, QC, and replenishment.
• Track expiry-risk for seasonal or trend-driven items.
• Work closely with merchandising teams to ensure product availability and rotation.

4. Merchandising & Display

• Plan planograms, shelf layouts, and display strategies for retail stores.
• Ensure every section looks premium, tidy, and on-brand.
• Support retailers with display stands, signage, and promotional materials.

5. Sales & Performance

• Monitor weekly and monthly KPIs (sell-through, margin, stock turns).
• Prepare category performance reports and improvement plans.
• Work with marketing to plan promotions, seasonal launches, and new product reveals.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years’ experience in category management, merchandising, or buying — ideally in Gifting, gift accessories, party supplies, stationery, FMCG, or retail.
• Strong Content management skills
• Strong negotiation and supplier-management skills.
• Comfortable with margins, costing sheets, and forecasting.
• Project management of Designers, photographers & videographers
• Excellent eye for design, detail, and product trends.
• Good knowledge of UAE retail landscape.
• Excel-friendly
• Organised, proactive, and commercially sharp.