Category Manager – Confectionery

About the role

You will lead the confectionery category at Hamad International Airport, driving sales, profitability and brand growth for a diverse traveller audience. The role combines buying, merchandising, forecasting, pricing and promotional activities in a fast‑paced travel‑retail environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and manage a team of buyers to achieve sales and margin targets.
• Increase product volume and improve inventory turnover within the category.
• Oversee ordering, pricing and in‑store presentation to meet category objectives.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery and payment terms with vendors to maximise profit margins.
• Set competitive pricing, run promotions and clear stagnant inventory.
• Expand successful product lines and phase out under‑performing items.
• Collaborate with retail and marketing teams to ensure effective product promotion.
• Monitor weekly/monthly performance and financial results.
• Conduct post‑promotion analysis and communicate plans to stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Purchasing or a related field.
• Minimum 8 years of category management experience in travel retail, preferably food and confectionery.
• Proven track record of managing sales, margins and stock levels.
• Hands‑on experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle or Navision.

Required skills

• SAP
• Oracle
• Navision