Senior Executive - Retail Product Development

About WhiteCrow

We are global talent research, insight, and sourcing specialists with offices in the UK, USA, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Dubai, and India. Our international reach has helped us to understand and penetrate specialist markets at a global level. In addition to this, our service is also extended to complement our client’s in-house talent acquisition teams.

About our client

Since its inception in 2000, our client has emerged as a prominent and fast-growing retail group serving markets across the Middle East. The organization partners with world-class fashion and lifestyle brands, delivering globally inspired products and experiences to discerning consumers throughout the GCC. Guided by a vision to become a leading regional gateway for international retailers, the company has successfully built a broad portfolio across diverse consumer categories. Its collaborative approach with global brand partners, combined with extensive market expertise and a customer-first mindset, has enabled sustained growth and ongoing expansion across the region. Today, our client remains well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities within the dynamic Middle Eastern retail market.

As a Senior Executive - Retail Product Development, you will be responsible for...

• Managing Retail Products pertaining to retail licenses, including licensor relationships, contract agreements, product development, brand plans, and brand forecasts. Developing ranges that are commercial, customer-focused, on-trend, and in line with the theme.
• Developing and creating own generic and licensed products (Electronic Gadgets, Toys, Plush, Stationery, Souvenirs, Apparels, Confectionery, and Accessories) by initiating projects and following up on the entire product development process (creativity, sketches, designer briefs, prototypes, samples, and finished goods).
• Providing effective and timely feedback to vendors/suppliers, negotiating development, tooling, and product costs, whilst staying on track with development timelines.
• Communicating regularly with the IP's Product Development Team and following up on:
• New product lines being developed for the international market, so the same can be sourced/procured for the Destination Park.
• New nominated international vendors/suppliers.
• Updated product designs and style guides being developed by IPs, or any design or logo changes that need to be implemented on products.
• Upcoming movies, TV series, or social media campaigns.
• Presenting range concepts to Senior Management and finalizing the budget for the entire retail range.
• Managing and approving new/replenishment purchase orders for the retail divisions based on model stock and trends to achieve optimal sales.
• Demonstrating proactiveness in sourcing new ideas by drawing inspiration from diverse international markets and theme parks across the globe.
• Increasing and strengthening the vendor base to improve trading terms and key partnerships.
• Monitoring new and replenishment orders, estimating quantities and retail prices according to customer analysis, competitors' offerings, general/seasonal trends, and demographics.
• Proposing and initiating price changes/markdowns to achieve planned gross margins.
• Ensuring that all products are complying with GCC safety standards and other requirements specified by law or outlined in IP agreements.
• Understanding testing requirements as per GCC regulations and liaising with government authorities to formulate products/packaging according to requirements without jeopardizing the brand image in the market.
• Analysing vendor performance in terms of sales, sampling and development, costs, and communication, and reviewing action plans whilst discussing opportunities/forecasts for the following season.
• Negotiating and renegotiating with local and international vendors, contractors, and suppliers to secure the best business terms.
• Maintaining effective communication with the Warehouse Team regarding inventory control and ensuring that processes are being implemented across the Retail Department.
• Monitoring and analysing sales and inventory reports.
• Performing any other duties as may be reasonably requested by the Management Team.

What you already have...

• Education & Experience: Degree or equivalent with 6+ years of experience, including at least 6 years in a senior executive/managerial role; alternatively, 10+ years of relevant experience with 4+ years in a senior role.
• Retail & Theme Park Experience: Minimum 2 years of theme park retail experience; large-scale resort or theme park experience preferred.
• Procurement & International Business: Minimum 4 years of international procurement experience, with strong international business exposure and understanding of import/export logistics.
• Inventory & Systems: Experience with ERP systems, inventory management, and auto-replenishment processes; 2 years of retail inventory experience preferred.
• Communication & Commercial Skills: Strong English proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking, with basic knowledge of marketing strategies and visual merchandising.