Visual Merchandiser Manager

ORGANIZATION

• Reports to: General Manager, US Brands
• Job Location: Dubai, UAE
• Contract type: Permanent
  
  

Role Overview

As the Visual Merchandising & Retail Design Manager for US Brands, you will lead the Visual Merchandising & Retail Design function across the GCC region, overseeing both permanent and temporary merchandising initiatives. You will act as the brand custodian, ensuring all executions reflect global brand standards while delivering excellence in quality, timeliness, and budget adherence. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong project management capabilities, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for elevating brand presence at retail.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Brand Stewardship

• Lead the Visual Merchandising department for US Brands, driving excellence across all permanent and temporary merchandising projects.
• Serve as the brand guardian, ensuring all executions are aligned with global guidelines and uphold brand integrity across all consumer touchpoints
  
  

Permanent Merchandising

• Oversee the planning, production, and installation of permanent fixtures for Free Standing Stores (FSS), Open Sell environments, and Department Stores (~160 doors across GCC).
• Manage CAPEX and amortization budgets in close collaboration with Finance, ensuring optimal resource allocation and cost control.
• Act as the Project Lead for all store openings and renovations, coordinating with EMEA, Global, and local stakeholders to ensure seamless execution.
• Supervise external vendors to guarantee timely installation and ongoing maintenance of fixtures.
• Partner with brand and market teams to define assortment strategies and POSM/tester requirements for new doors.
• Ensure timely and accurate fixture relocations within Open Sell environments, in line with approved layouts and merchandising plans.
  
  

Temporary Merchandising & Trade Animations

• Lead the design, budgeting, and execution of regional trade animations, ensuring alignment with global brand standards and marketing calendars.
• Manage POSM forecasting to support regional update needs, new openings, and promotional activities.
• Oversee visual updates and store takeovers, ensuring consistency and excellence in execution across all retail formats.
• Conduct regular market visits to audit visual merchandising standards and identify opportunities for enhancement.
• Maintain a comprehensive store database detailing fixture types, visual specifications, and merchandising assets.
• Provide monthly reporting on new installations, updates, and visual merchandising performance.
  
  

Budget Management & Cost Optimization

Negotiate with suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies without compromising quality or brand standards.

• Monitor and manage the full VM budget, including CAPEX, ensuring compliance with internal procurement policies.
  
  

Team Leadership

Manage and develop one direct report, fostering a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum 5/6 years of progressive experience in Visual Merchandising and Retail Design within the Middle East, ideally in the beauty, luxury, or premium retail sectors.
• Proven track record in leading complex store openings, fixture installations, and trade animations across diverse retail environments.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Excellent negotiation and time management capabilities.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of design software (e.g., Photoshop, AutoCAD) is a plus.
• Demonstrates alignment with Shiseido’s Trust8 Working Principles: Think Big, Take Risks, Hands-on, Collaborate, Be Open, Act with Integrity, Be Accountable, Applaud Success.

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