Category Merchant Manager, Hardlines Category, 3rd Party Marketplace (Saudi National)

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Category Merchant Manager for the Hardlines Category within our 3rd Party Marketplace division. This role is exclusively open to Saudi nationals and is based in Riyadh. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving the growth, profitability, and strategic development of the Hardlines category on our platform. As a Category Merchant Manager, you will be responsible for end-to-end category management, including product selection, vendor relations, pricing strategies, inventory optimization, and performance analysis to ensure alignment with business objectives and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Category Strategy & Growth: Develop and execute a comprehensive category strategy to expand the Hardlines product range, enhance market competitiveness, and drive revenue growth. Identify emerging trends, market gaps, and opportunities to introduce innovative products that cater to customer demand.
• Vendor & Supplier Management: Establish and maintain strong relationships with third-party vendors, suppliers, and manufacturers. Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and contractual agreements to ensure high-quality product availability at competitive rates. Monitor vendor performance and enforce compliance with marketplace policies.
• Product Assortment & Merchandising: Curate and optimize the Hardlines product assortment by selecting high-demand items, ensuring competitive pricing, and maintaining a balanced inventory mix. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing and logistics, to enhance product visibility and customer engagement.
• Pricing & Promotions: Develop dynamic pricing strategies and promotional campaigns to maximize sales, improve conversion rates, and enhance customer loyalty. Analyze market trends, competitor pricing, and customer behavior to adjust strategies in real-time.
• Inventory & Supply Chain Management: Oversee inventory levels to prevent stockouts or overstocking, ensuring optimal turnover rates. Work closely with the supply chain team to streamline procurement processes, reduce lead times, and improve overall operational efficiency.
• Performance Analysis & Reporting: Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales growth, profit margins, customer reviews, and return rates. Generate detailed reports and actionable insights to support data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure adherence to marketplace policies, regulatory requirements, and quality standards. Address any issues related to product authenticity, counterfeit goods, or customer complaints promptly and effectively.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Lead and mentor a team of category specialists, analysts, and support staff. Foster a collaborative work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and continuous professional development.

Qualifications & Skills

To excel in this role, candidates must possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., CPIM, CSCP) is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in category management, merchandising, or retail operations, with at least 3 years in a managerial role. Prior experience in the Hardlines category (e.g., electronics, home appliances, tools, or automotive products) is highly desirable.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in data analytics tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Power BI), e-commerce platforms, and inventory management systems. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to interpret market data and drive strategic decisions.
• Soft Skills: Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated leadership abilities with a results-oriented mindset. Fluency in Arabic and English is required; additional languages are a plus.
• Local Market Knowledge: Deep understanding of the Saudi market, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape. Familiarity with local regulations, cultural preferences, and business practices is essential.

Why Join Us?

Afaq Q Tech General Trading offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment where your contributions will directly impact the success of our 3rd Party Marketplace. As a Category Merchant Manager, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of our Hardlines category, work with cutting-edge technology, and collaborate with a diverse team of professionals. We provide competitive compensation packages, professional development opportunities, and a supportive culture that values innovation and excellence.

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for category management and a commitment to driving business growth, we invite you to apply and become a key player in our success story.