Stellenbeschreibung

DEPARTER – THE KNOW-WHO PEOPLE

Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with more than 20 years of experience in international leadership recruitment. With offices across four continents, we support medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms in identifying and placing top executive talent. With a strong focus on the DACH business community, we provide strategic recruitment solutions tailored to the cultural and operational dynamics of markets in DACH, MEAI, ASIA and ANZ.

YOUR ROLE AT A GLANCE - Director Buying & Category (m/f/d)

For a globally active retail company with regional operations in the Middle East and Africa, we seek a visionary and experienced Director Buying & Category (m/f/d) to lead the strategy and performance of key beauty product segments in a dynamic growth market. 

In this key leadership role, you will drive category strategies that shape customer experience, enhance assortment performance, and align with international business objectives. You will collaborate with regional and global teams, lead a high-performing unit, and play a critical role in strengthening the company’s market presence across retail and wholesale channels.

Your duties and responsibilities will include:

• Develop and implement the annual commercial strategy and action plan for Beauty, LTC and Local Products across the MEA region.

• Collaborate with global and regional teams to translate international goals into region-specific strategies.

• Lead cross-functional cooperation with internal departments and external partners to deliver on commercial, sustainability and brand ambitions.

• Negotiate with suppliers to secure competitive terms and foster strategic, long-term partnerships.

• Identify new growth opportunities through data-driven analysis, industry insights and creative category development.

• Monitor and manage the category’s financial performance, ensuring transparency and alignment with key stakeholders.

• Oversee operational processes including assortment planning, supplier coordination and order management.

• Lead and mentor the regional buying and category management teams to drive engagement, innovation and excellence.

To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:

Soft Skills

• Proven leadership capabilities with a track record of managing diverse, multicultural teams.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Strategic mindset paired with strong analytical thinking.

• Ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

• Fluency in English, Arabic and/or French is considered an asset.

Technical Skills

• In-depth understanding of category and assortment management, preferably in the Beauty sector.

• Strong financial and analytical skills with data-based decision-making proficiency.

• Skilled in supplier negotiation and commercial partnerships.

Qualifications

• University degree in Business, Purchasing, Marketing or related field.

• Over 10 years of international experience in Retail or FMCG, including a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role.

• Profound expertise in category development, especially in the Beauty segment.

THE VALUE THIS POSITION OFFERS

Join a globally connected and forward-thinking organization where your leadership will directly impact commercial success in one of the most vibrant growth markets worldwide. If you are passionate about shaping product portfolios and influencing regional strategy, this opportunity offers you an exciting next step in your career journey.

➤ Ready to take the next step in your career?
Apply now and contribute your expertise to a dynamic international team redefining category success across the Middle East and Africa.