Category Manager – Niche Products

Company Overview

Safari Group of Companies, a rapidly expanding retail powerhouse since 2000, operates in eight African and Middle Eastern countries, including Kenya and Dubai. With over 40 stores and several Duty Free outlets, the Group features renowned brands like JBL, Sony, Bose, Samsung, Lenovo, and Samsonite. The company excels in travel retail, electronics, fragrance, jewelry, and premium lifestyle sectors, managing prestigious concepts and locations recognized for sustained excellence and growth.

Position Summary

The Kenya Airways-Safari Group joint venture is seeking an experienced Category Manager specializing in premium niche products such as perfumes, consumer electronics, and premium cigars. This role encompasses crafting strategic plans to enhance category growth and profits through supplier relationship management, assortment optimization, and sales expansion in both retail and distribution contexts.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement category growth strategies targeting enhanced sales and profitability.
• Oversee entire product lifecycles, from sourcing and selection to pricing, promotions, and discontinuation.
• Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with local and international suppliers and brands.
• Negotiate commercial arrangements including pricing, rebates, and promotional support.
• Lead product assortment planning informed by consumer insights, market trends, and sales data.
• Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to maintain optimal inventory, preventing stock imbalances.
• Analyze performance metrics to identify and act on growth opportunities.
• Develop promotional calendars and merchandising strategies to boost category profile and sales.
• Coordinate with retail operations to ensure excellent product display and in-store execution.
• Drive growth via both retail outlets and distribution channels by exploring new market opportunities.
• Track competitor activities and emerging trends in relevant product categories.
• Prepare sales forecasts, budgets, and management reports.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, especially concerning tobacco and controlled goods.
• Work cross-functionally with finance, logistics, marketing, and operations teams to meet business goals.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, Commerce, or related fields.
• Professional certifications in Procurement, Marketing, or Category Management are advantageous.
• At least five years of advancing experience in Category Management, Buying, or Commercial Management.
• Demonstrated expertise managing premium/niche categories such as perfumes, electronics, luxury goods, or tobacco products.
• Experience spanning both retail and distribution sectors.
• Preferred background in travel retail, airport retail, duty-free, FMCG, luxury retail, or consumer electronics.

Core Skills

• Strong commercial insight and business acumen.
• Exceptional negotiation and supplier relationship capabilities.
• Advanced skills in financial and data analysis.
• Expertise in inventory control and demand forecasting.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP software like SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Capability to thrive in fast-paced, diverse environments with professionalism and integrity.

Performance Indicators

• Growth in category sales and market share.
• Improvement in gross margins and inventory turnover.
• Achievement of favorable supplier terms and delivery performance.
• Effectiveness of product launches and promotional activities.
• Accuracy of sales forecasts and customer satisfaction levels.
• Expansion of revenue streams in retail and distribution networks.

What the Role Offers

• Chance to work within a reputed joint venture combining Kenya Airways and Safari Group expertise.
• Exposure to globally recognized premium brands and travel retail environments.
• Competitive pay and a benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional advancement in a dynamic workplace.
• A cooperative and innovative team atmosphere.

Application Notes

Candidates must provide evidence of successful management of niche product categories and proven experience in both retail and distribution portfolios.