Location:
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Employment Type:
Full Time

About OTB Group:
Only The Brave (OTB) is a global fashion and luxury powerhouse, home to bold and creative brands including Maison Margiela, Jil Sander, and Marni. With innovation and creativity at its core, OTB challenges norms and continually redefines the fashion industry, empowering talents and shaping the future of luxury.

About the Role:
We are looking for a highly motivated Buying & Merchandising Manager to lead the strategy and operations for Maison Margiela, Marni, and Jil Sander across the UAE and KSA. Reporting to senior leadership, you will be responsible for assortment planning, OTB management, sales analysis, vendor negotiations, and team development, ensuring commercial success while preserving each brand’s DNA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead buying and merchandising strategies for all three brands across UAE and KSA.

• Manage seasonal OTB budgets and ensure alignment with brand and regional objectives.

• Conduct seasonal buying sessions to ensure optimal product mix and commercial success.

• Analyze sales trends, customer insights, and competitor activity to optimize assortments and in-season adjustments.

• Implement replenishment strategies, monitor KPIs, and reactively manage inventory through reorders and transfers.

• Partner with supply chain, visual merchandising, and marketing teams to enhance product storytelling and seasonal launches.

• Drive profitability through strong vendor management and negotiation.

• Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing buying and merchandising team.

• Collaborate with Finance and HQ teams on pricing, budgeting, and margin improvement.

• Foster cross-functional collaboration to support business growth and innovation.

Candidate Requirements:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in buying and merchandising, with 3+ years in a leadership role within luxury or contemporary fashion.

• Strong expertise in OTB management, retail KPIs, and regional consumer behaviors.

• Experience working with European fashion brands and within matrix organizations.

• Exceptional analytical, negotiation, and leadership skills.

• Proven track record in team development and building high-performing, creative teams.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

What We Offer:

• A dynamic and inspiring work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including healthcare, child education support, flexible working policies, and exclusive employee discounts.

• Career mobility and development opportunities within the wider Chalhoub Group.