Category Specialist

About Palomba General Trading LLC

Palomba General Trading LLC operates internationally from its headquarters in Dubai, serving markets across the GCC, Europe, and select global regions. Their offerings include natural ingredients, botanical extracts, flavor systems, essential oils, and specialized raw materials, catering to sectors like food, beverage, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and fragrances.

Position Overview

The Category Specialist will aid in the commercial growth and management of designated product categories within the GCC. This role involves combining product expertise, market evaluation, and commercial collaboration by working closely with Product, Sales, Procurement teams, and international suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and advance assigned product categories effectively.
• Conduct analysis on sales data, margins, and commercial outcomes.
• Identify growth prospects within customers and target markets.
• Track industry and product trend developments.
• Assess customer needs related to the assigned categories.
• Contribute to the formulation of category strategies and priorities.
• Examine supplier portfolios to spot product gaps.
• Coordinate product information exchange with international manufacturers.
• Facilitate the launch of new products in relevant categories.
• Develop category presentations and marketing materials.
• Evaluate pricing structures and product positioning.
• Support sales teams during engagements with customers.
• Monitor competitive product offerings and market changes.
• Maintain precise product and category records.
• Manage samples and product documentation when necessary.
• Prepare regular reports on category performance.
• Collaborate across departments including Sales, Procurement, Marketing, and Product teams.
• Engage in supplier meetings, customer discussions, and industry exhibitions as required.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, International Business, Food Science, Pharmacy, or related fields.
• 2 to 5 years of experience in category management, product management, commercial analysis, procurement, or B2B marketing.
• Strong analytical aptitude and commercial insight.
• Understanding of product portfolios and customer demands.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Ability to deliver impactful presentations.
• Experience with CRM or ERP systems is a plus.
• Capability to coordinate effectively across multiple functions.

Preferred Industry Background

• Food and beverage
• Food ingredients
• Nutraceuticals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics
• Flavours and fragrances
• Essential oils
• Specialty chemicals
• FMCG
• B2B distribution

Prior exposure to international manufacturers or GCC markets is advantageous. Arabic language skills are beneficial but not required.

Compensation and Benefits

• Monthly salary ranging from QAR 15,000 to 20,000 based on qualifications and experience.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Private medical insurance coverage.
• Paid annual leave entitlement.
• Annual flight allowance.
• Support for professional development.
• Assistance with employment and visa formalities where applicable.

What Palomba Offers

• Responsibility for international product categories.
• Engagement with diverse customers and suppliers in the GCC region.
• Close interaction with Product, Commercial, and Procurement divisions.
• Involvement in product and category innovation projects.
• Multicultural international work environment.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Potential progression to Senior Category Specialist, Category Manager, or Product Manager roles.

Application Instructions

Candidates should provide an updated CV detailing relevant experience in category or product management, commercial analysis, product portfolio oversight, supplier or client coordination, and applicable B2B or consumer sectors. Applicants must also specify their current location, notice period, earliest availability, and salary expectations. Only applicants whose experience aligns with the role will be considered. Selection is based on professional qualifications, skills, and experience by Palomba General Trading LLC.