Principal Manager - Pernod Ricard

About Us:

Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) and Maritime & Mercantile International (MMI), subsidiaries of the Emirates Group, are industry leaders committed to world-class service and exceptional customer experiences. ELR operates over 300 outlets worldwide featuring renowned brands like Costa Coffee and Pret A Manger, while MMI is a global powerhouse in beverage distribution and retail, serving 30+ countries. As a trusted supplier of premium beverages, MMI offers an extensive selection of fine wines, spirits, and specialty drinks through its vast network.

Role Purpose

We are looking for a Principal Manager – Pernod Ricard to drive the strategic leadership and commercial success of the Pernod Ricard portfolio across all domestic channels within MMI. As the principal business partner and strategic steward of the Pernod Ricard brands, you will shape long-term growth plans, deliver commercial performance, and ensure outstanding execution across markets. This role is key to strengthening MMI’s position as the premium wines and spirits partner of choice

Key Accountabilities

• Lead the development and execution of brand and category plans aligned with MMI’s strategic objectives.
• Drive commercial performance through pricing, P&L management, and budget control.
• Build and sustain relationships with Pernod Ricard brand owners, distributors, and key customers, ensuring effective collaboration and brand growth.
• Manage contract negotiations, supplier partnerships, and marketing investments to optimize ROI.
• Oversee stock forecasting, inventory levels, and new product launches to maintain availability and reduce stockouts.
• Lead business reviews, promotional planning, and brand activation strategies across multiple channels.
• Mentor and develop the marketing and commercial teams, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Required Experience, Skills & Qualifications

• 5–7 years’ experience in brand or category management, commercial strategy, or trade marketing — ideally within FMCG, beverages, or luxury goods sectors.
• Proven experience managing budgets, P&L, and supplier relationships.
• Strong commercial acumen with a deep understanding of consumer insights, market trends, and premium brand positioning.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and project management skills.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.

Desired Experience, Skills & Qualification

• WSET Advanced Certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Experience working with premium wine and spirits brands.
• Familiarity with on-trade and off-trade business in the UAE.
• Working knowledge of brand-owner business models

Why Join Us?

Join MMI as Principal Manager for Pernod Ricard and play a key role in shaping the growth of one of the world’s leading premium spirits portfolios. Partner closely with a globally iconic brand, drive strategic market expansion, and make a real commercial impact in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

How to apply

Click ‘Apply’ to join our team.