Category Manager

About Miral Experiences

Miral Experiences is a leading operator of immersive attractions and experiences in Abu Dhabi, managing iconic destinations like Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld, and CLYMB. We specialize in creating unique, memorable experiences for visitors of all ages, blending thrills, joy, and discovery.

Job Summary

Join Miral Experiences as a Category Manager and spearhead retail product innovation for our renowned theme parks. Reporting to the Senior Retail Buyer, you will oversee the complete lifecycle of product categories, ensuring competitive retail offerings. This role involves close collaboration with Merchandise Planning, Testing & Compliance, and other departments to deliver profitable, customer-focused solutions. You will leverage analytical skills and strategic thinking to influence the retail landscape in the GCC entertainment sector.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies, including supplier negotiation, pricing, quality assessment, and sourcing.
• Coordinate with Merchandise Planning to align product buy plans and delivery schedules across all business units.
• Ensure adherence to UAE regulations through collaboration with the Testing and Compliance team for product verification and audits.
• Maintain and enhance product categorization and reporting structures for improved analytics.
• Manage the creation of new items, establish pricing standards, and process purchase orders in line with vendor management protocols.
• Foster a collaborative environment by engaging with internal and external stakeholders to support category objectives and daily operations.
• Collaborate with Merchandise Planning to manage category budgets, monitor costs (COGS, freight), and track Gross Profit margins, reporting performance across business units.
• Analyze sales and inventory trends to optimize stock levels, minimize slow-moving items, and manage clearance strategies.
• Conduct market trend analysis and identify new sourcing opportunities to maintain competitive product offerings.
• Develop and execute events, activations, and Annual Pass initiatives in alignment with internal teams to boost engagement and revenue.
• Work with leadership to define category growth Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and ensure strategic goals are met.
• Cultivate strong relationships with Intellectual Property (IP) holders, partners, and external vendors to ensure cohesive product offerings.
• Act as the main liaison for all internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and follow-through on key projects.

Qualifications

Essential

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in retail buying and product development, with a preference for experience in the theme park or attraction industry.
• Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions and solve problems effectively in fast-paced settings.
• Experience in end-to-end product development, including vendor management and data-driven analysis.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English, with strong communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, Point of Sale (POS) systems, retail inventory management, and financial software.
• Understanding of departmental budgeting, Profit & Loss (P&L) management, and open-to-buy strategies.
• High adaptability to thrive in dynamic environments with changing priorities.
• Strong multitasking capabilities to manage multiple deadlines under pressure.
• Effective leadership skills with a proactive and collaborative approach.

Desirable

• Over 10 years of experience in retail buying and product development, with specific expertise in GCC brands and license/IP management.
• Fluency in languages other than English.
• Experience in developing retail products for theme parks or high-volume entertainment venues.

Additional Information

At Miral Experiences, we are dedicated to creating unforgettable memories for our guests and fostering remarkable careers for our employees. Every team member contributes to delivering exceptional experiences, driven by passion, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. We seek motivated, talented individuals ready to grow, lead, and make an impact. Opportunities are available for individuals from all backgrounds and expertise levels.