L’Oréal, the world’s #1 beauty company, is seeking a dynamic and commercially driven Head of Trade Activation & Retail Excellence for the UAE and Rest of the Gulf (ROG) region. This full-time, on-site role is based in Dubai and plays a critical part in shaping the in-store experience and executing go-to-market strategies across key retail partners.

As part of the Consumer Products Division, this role focuses on delivering a winning retail and trade marketing strategy, balancing category targets, building brand equity, and driving growth across retailers. You’ll manage a team of 4, oversee budgets, drive promotional excellence, and ensure end-to-end execution that reflects L’Oréal’s innovative and inclusive ethos.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and implement the go-to-market (GTM) strategy for UAE/ROG, aligning with the CBD (Customer Business Development) vision.

• Develop impactful retailer programs to meet brand and category objectives.

• Collaborate with Key Account Managers (KAM) to present GTM strategies and support in selling stories.

• Customize national category plans for specific retailers (e.g., planograms, brand assortment, share of fixture).

• Own activation and CAPEX budgets, track expenditures, and manage forecasts with finance teams.

• Monitor and evaluate promotional performance and adjust strategies accordingly.

• Align marketing initiatives with commercial activities through improved cross-functional processes.

• Recruit, develop, and manage the Trade Marketing team (currently 4 team members).

Professional & Technical Competencies:

• Strong foundation in commerce fundamentals, business drivers, and profit optimization.

• Customer-centric business planning and retailer relationship management.

• Expert in building selling propositions, conducting win-win negotiations, and ensuring compliance.

• Proficiency in sell-in/sell-out excellence, forecasting, POS field execution, and staffing oversight.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in trade marketing with a focus on retail activation and customer engagement.

• Exceptional communication and leadership skills.

• Deep understanding of shopper insights, GTM strategy, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field preferred.

What’s in It for You:

• Immediate responsibility and opportunity to lead key market strategies.

• A vibrant, inclusive, and innovation-driven work culture.

• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a globally recognized brand.

• A chance to make a difference through impactful brand initiatives aligned with societal and environmental goals.

About the Company:
With presence in over 150 markets and more than a century of excellence, L’Oréal is synonymous with innovation, diversity, and transformation in the beauty industry. Its Consumer Products Division includes globally loved brands like L’Oréal Paris, Garnier, Maybelline New York, and NYX Professional Makeup. Join a company that empowers every voice and celebrates diversity while setting the pace in beauty innovation.