Commercial Trading Manager | Retail | Marks & Spencer | KSA

Job Requisition ID: 165287

Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organisation to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.

By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day.

Role Overview

The Trading Manager will play a pivotal role in coordinating with the Buying and Store teams to enhance cataloging accuracy and stock management through data-driven decisions. This includes regular store visits and active feedback incorporation from store teams to optimize store performance and customer satisfaction in the KSA market.

Key Responsibilities

Store Cataloguing and Seasonal Launches:

1. Collaborate with Business Unit teams to streamline cataloguing processes tailored to customer profiles and store grades.
2. Act as the primary representative for the KSA market during all seasonal launches, ensuring market-specific needs are addressed.
3. Proactively identify and capitalize on opportunities to boost full price sales and margins.

Space and Option Planning:

1. Oversee the spatial and inventory planning for each store, ensuring optimal product placement and availability.
2. Conduct weekly reviews of actual versus planned options, adjusting strategies in real-time to meet market demands.

Trade Management:

1. Lead weekly trade meetings to discuss performance metrics, strategize on inventory adjustments, and optimize overall trade effectiveness.
2. Utilize tools like Invent and Tableau to analyze data and make informed decisions that support business objectives.

Market Awareness:

1. Regularly conduct competitive analysis and seasonal SWOT to maintain a competitive edge.
2. Stay informed about market trends to adeptly respond to rapidly changing conditions.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. Cultivate strong relationships with internal stakeholders including the Merchandising, Planning, Operations, Visual Merchandising, and Marketing teams to ensure collaborative success.

Required Skills and Qualifications

1. Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
2. Experience: Minimum of 7-8 years in retail, with substantial experience in merchandising within the MENA region or with UK/European brands.
3. Skills:
   
   1. Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
   2. Proficient in Microsoft Office and SAP.
   3. Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.

Behavioral Competencies:

1. Demonstrates a strong customer focus, adept at managing complexity, and excels in a collaborative environment.
2. Capable of driving results through engaging leadership and has a proven ability to influence others.

Values:

1. Commitment to embody M&S’s core values: Inspiration, Innovation, In Touch, and Integrity.