Head Of Category And Portfolio Development

About Us:

MMI are a dynamic beverage import marketing, sales, retail, and distribution organisation, and our vision is to delight every customer with our passion for quality and service.

Headquartered in Dubai, we operate in 42 countries across South and East Africa, the Gulf & Middle East, Southern Europe, Indian Ocean, and Southeast Asia, making us one of the world’s leading independent distributors.

At every interaction with our portfolio, events, and outlets, we strive for exceptional experiences for our customers and consumers through innovations like the award-winning Le Clos Finest Wines and Luxury Spirits retail concept to trend-driven brands and e-commerce and through operational efficiency and the highest standards of customer service at every touch point.

Job Purpose

As the Head of Category & Portfolio Development, you will define, lead, and execute the strategic direction of assigned product categories, including Wines, Spirits, Champagne, and Non-Alcoholic beverages in alignment with MMI’s overall growth and profitability agenda. You’ll drive category performance through supplier partnerships, data-led portfolio management, and commercial excellence, ensuring an optimal balance between revenue growth, margin delivery, and working capital efficiency.

This role acts as the strategic link between brand partners, commercial teams, and operational functions, shaping category strategies that strengthen MMI’s market leadership and create long-term value across domestic, travel retail, and international markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of category strategies aligned with MMI’s business objectives to achieve sustainable, long-term growth.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with brand principals and suppliers, ensuring robust commercial agreements and joint business plans.
• Use customer insights and data to shape assortment, pricing, and activation strategies tailored to retail, e-commerce, and international channels.
• Drive category revenue and profit targets, managing pricing, inventory, and supply chain efficiency across markets.
• Coach and develop category and brand managers, fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture that drives excellence and innovation.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 15 years’ experience in FMCG or liquor category management or brand development.
• Proven success in managing multiple categories, markets, and large cross-functional teams.
• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation, and financial planning skills.
• Experience building strategic supplier and brand relationships to deliver category growth.
• Leadership experience managing large, diverse teams.

Desirable Skills & Qualifications

• WSET Level 2 or above.
• Regional experience within the Middle East beverage industry.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and leadership abilities.

What we offer:

Join a team of experienced professionals who are experts in the industry. We want to create memories and provide an exceptional experience to every customer on every visit. Thats why were passionate about offering a wide variety of delicious and high-quality products. We’re committed to sustainable practices, reducing our environmental impact, and giving back to the communities that we operate in. Were committed to putting our people first by creating a positive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

How to apply

Click ‘Apply’ to join our team.