Grandiose is a home-grown Retail chain giving its customers a different experience for shopping and dining in the UAE. The fast-growing premium grocery retailer is looking for a Category Manager(specialized in Premium Cheese) for their CommercialDepartment
Job Purpose:
The role of a Cheese & Deli Category Manager involves overseeing the operations, sales, and overall management of a business specializing in cheese and deli products within the Grandiose community centers across the UAE.
Across the Stores Cheese & Deli:
- SKU Management
- Merchandising strategy & Development
- Inventory management - Availability, Visibility & Variety
- Vendor management
- Sales analysis and forecasting
- Team management
- Price and Margin optimization
Key Responsibilities:
- Business Strategy: Develop and implement a strategic business plan that defines the company's goals, growth targets, and market positioning within the cheese and deli industry.
- Product Management: Curate and manage a diverse range of cheese and deli products, including selection, sourcing, quality control, and inventory management.
- Sales and Marketing: Create and execute sales and marketing strategies to promote the business, increase sales, and expand the customer base. This may include pricing strategies, promotions, and branding.
- Inventory Control: Monitor and manage inventory levels to minimize waste and spoilage while maintaining a varied and appealing product selection.
- Supplier Relationships: Establish and maintain strong relationships with cheese and deli suppliers, farmers, and producers to ensure a consistent and reliable source of high-quality products.
- Staff Management: Recruit, train, and manage a team of employees, including deli counter staff, cheese experts, and sales representatives.
- Financial Management: Oversee the financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue growth. Ensure the business operates within budget and is financially sustainable.
- Quality Assurance: Implement and maintain strict quality control standards to ensure the freshness, safety, and quality of cheese and deli products.
- Compliance and Regulation: Ensure the business complies with all relevant food safety and health regulations, permits, and licenses.
- Market Research: Stay updated on market trends, customer preferences, and competitors in the cheese and deli industry.
- Menu Development: Create and maintain an attractive deli menu that showcases cheese and deli products in various forms, including sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and platters.
- Wine and Pairing Knowledge: Possess expertise in wine and food pairings, as well as the ability to recommend wine selections that complement the cheese and deli offerings.
- Events and Tastings: Plan and host events, tastings, and workshops to promote products, engage with the community, and attract new customers.
- Technology Adoption: Stay current with technology trends in the industry, including point-of-sale systems, inventory management software, and data analysis tools.
- Community Engagement: Engage with the local community and participate in community events and initiatives to strengthen the Grandiose presence and reputation.
- Reporting and Analysis: Monitor and analyze key performance metrics, such as sales, customer feedback, and inventory turnover, to identify areas for improvement and growth.
- Health and Safety: Ensure that safety protocols and hygiene standards are consistently met in food preparation and service areas.
- Crisis Management: Develop and implement contingency plans to address unexpected challenges, such as product recalls or adverse market conditions.
- The role of a Cheese & Deli Business Manager combines elements of culinary expertise, sales and marketing, inventory management, and business leadership. It requires a strong understanding of the industry, effective management skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality products and service to customers.
Required Qualifications, Abilities & Skills:
- Minimum 8-15 years of experience in the Cheese business.
- Deep expertise in the premium dairy or specialist cheese sector, including knowledge of global sourcing and artisanal producers.
- Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage P&L responsibilities and complex budgets.
- Advanced negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Excellent analytical skills with proficiency in category management software and data analysis tools.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate data into actionable commercial plans.
Skills:
- Negotiation
- Contract Negotiation
- P&L Management
- Procurement
- Sales Strategy
- Food Safety & Hygiene
- Food Cost Control
