General Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced General Manager for overseeing and managing the complete business operations of the Company in the UAE and Middle East region. The successful candidate will play a critical role in driving profitability, business growth, and operational efficiency by overseeing key functions such as distributor relations, principal communications, supply chain, logistics, and the onboarding of new brands and regions. He / She will have a proven track record in managing end-to-end operations within the FMCG space, with a focus on strategic leadership, market expansion, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership & Business Growth:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive business strategy to drive profitability and growth across multiple markets.
• Lead business development efforts to expand into new regions and onboard new brands, products, and partners.
• Identify and capitalize on market opportunities to increase market share in the UAE and the broader Middle East.
• Monitor competitive activity and market trends to ensure the company remains agile and responsive to market changes.

2. Principal Communication & Distributor Relations:

• Manage and nurture relationships with key principals (international brands and suppliers), ensuring smooth communication and alignment of objectives.
• Collaborate with principal partners to develop tailored strategies for product launches, promotions, and market entry.
• Strengthen distributor relationships by ensuring clear communication, performance management, and collaborative planning to maximize sales potential.
• Conduct regular performance reviews with distributors to assess sales performance and ensure alignment with company goals.
• Negotiate and oversee distribution agreements, ensuring favorable terms for the company and operational efficiency.

3. Sales Management & Expansion:

• Lead and manage the sales team to achieve revenue targets across the UAE and Middle East regions.
• Develop regional sales strategies to meet the demands of different markets and customer segments.
• Drive the execution of sales plans, forecasting, and budgeting to ensure sustainable revenue growth.
• Establish strong relationships with retailers, distributors, and other key stakeholders to expand market penetration.
• Lead initiatives to increase product visibility and distribution in both modern and traditional trade channels.

4. Marketing & Brand Development:

• Develop and oversee the execution of comprehensive marketing plans to enhance brand awareness and customer loyalty.
• Lead the introduction of new brands and products in collaboration with marketing, sales, and supply chain teams.
• Manage the creation of digital, social media, and traditional marketing campaigns that align with business objectives.
• Ensure brand consistency across all marketing activities, promotions, and advertising efforts.
• Conduct market research and analysis to continuously improve marketing strategies and product positioning.

5. Supply Chain & Logistics Oversight:

• Oversee the entire supply chain process, from procurement to distribution, ensuring timely and cost-effective operations.
• Optimize inventory management processes to ensure an efficient supply of products without overstocking or understocking.
• Manage logistics and warehousing operations to minimize lead times, control costs, and ensure product availability.
• Ensure close collaboration between supply chain, sales, and marketing to maintain smooth operations and seamless customer delivery.
• Lead efforts to adopt best practices in supply chain and logistics to improve efficiency and profitability.

6. Financial Management & Profitability:

• Develop and manage the P&L for the sales, marketing, supply chain, and commercial operations.
• Implement strategies to improve margins through pricing, cost control, and operational efficiency.
• Analyze financial performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Ensure alignment of commercial objectives with financial goals, driving sustainable and profitable growth.
• Prepare and present financial reports, forecasts, and operational reviews to the CEO and board.

7. Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams across sales, marketing, supply chain, and commercial operations.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the organization.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, providing feedback and setting clear KPIs for team members.
• Ensure ongoing professional development for the teams, providing training and growth opportunities.
• Foster a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes creativity and productivity.

8. Stakeholder Engagement & Compliance:

• Act as the primary point of contact for all key stakeholders, including principals, distributors, and key business partners.
• Ensure all operations comply with local regulations, international standards, and company policies.
• Liaise with government authorities, regulatory bodies, and industry associations to stay informed of any legal or regulatory changes affecting the business.
• Maintain the highest standards of ethical and operational conduct across the business.

9. Market Research & Competitive Intelligence:

• Conduct regular market research to stay updated on consumer trends, competitor activities, and economic factors impacting the business.
• Implement strategies to stay ahead of competition and maintain the company’s leading position in the market.

Skills

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field. An MBA is preferred.
• A minimum of 10-15 years of experience in FMCG, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven track record of success in marketing, sales, distribution, and overall business management in UAE, covering the Middle East region.
• Strong understanding of local markets, consumer behavior, and competitive landscapes in GCC / ME.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage large teams across multiple functions.
• Fluency in English is essential; Arabic is an advantage.