Business Unit Manager - Modern Trade - Oman

At Arla, we do so much more than make some of the world’s favourite dairy products. We make healthy taste delicious, mornings worth getting up for and family dinners unforgettable. Puck®, Lurpak®, The Three Cows®, Starbucks® and Castello® – names like these make us a vital, natural part of modern life in over 100 countries around the world. There are 1,200 employees in the Middle East and Africa and 19,000 global employees at the heart of our business. Every single one of us plays an important role and together we build on our 14bn Euros turnover and establish our position as one of the largest dairy companies in the world.

Are you energized by the fast-paced nature of Modern Trade in the GCC and motivated by building win–win partnerships with top retailers? Do you blend strategic thinking with hands-on execution—owning the P&L, shaping channel strategy, and delivering flawless in-store performance? And are you a collaborative leader who thrives on developing teams, negotiating complex contracts, and aligning cross-functional stakeholders to drive sustainable growth? If so, this opportunity we have in Arla Foods Oman is one not to be missed.

We’re seeking a Business Unit Manager – Modern Trade to lead our Modern trade channel business in Oman. Based from our offices in Muscat, you will own the MT strategy and execution across Oman, Gross To Net (GTN) responsibility, developing strategic customer plans, accelerating category growth, and building high-performing teams. This role reports to the Head of Sales, Oman.

How will you make an impact in this role…

This is a strategic leadership position to drive the entire Modern Trade (MT) business for our Oman operations, focusing across our key retailers accounts. Your key responsibilities and impact areas will be:

• Accelerate Revenue Growth: Develop and execute the comprehensive annual Modern Trade strategy to deliver aggressive sales volume, value, and market share targets.
• Optimize Profitability: Hold P&L accountability for the channel, strategically managing trade spending, promotional budgets, and rebates to maximize ROI.
• Strengthen Key Partnerships: Establish and maintain high-level relationships with decision-makers at all major retailers, leading complex annual contract and trade term negotiations.
• Ensure Execution Excellence: Guarantee flawless in-store execution of promotions, product launches, and optimal shelf share/planogram adherence across all MT outlets.
• Lead & Develop Talent: Coach, mentor, and motivate the MT sales and merchandising team to achieve peak performance and operational excellence.
• Manage Forecasting: Drive accurate sales forecasting and demand planning in coordination with Supply Chain to maintain high product availability.

Competencies we are looking for…

The successful candidate must possess a blend of strategic market expertise, proven leadership skills, and hands-on operational excellence:

• Market Mastery: Minimum of 5+ years in a Modern Trade management role within Oman or in GCC Region.
• Key Account Proficiency: Direct, hands-on experience negotiating with and managing major retail customers
• Financial Acumen: Strong proficiency in P&L management, budget control, Promo spend management and developing long-term Joint Business Plans (JBPs).
• People Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a high-performing field sales and merchandising team.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Sales, or a related discipline.

What We Offer

At Arla, we’re committed to professional development and promoting from within. You’ll join a positive, collaborative culture and a market leader with household-favourite brands, contributing to sustainable practices that benefit our customers, farmers, and the planet.

• Impactful leadership role shaping the growth of Arla Foods in Oman
• Learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways
• Inclusive culture where you can bring your authentic self to work

Would you like to join us?

If you want to be part of a dynamic team and help shape the future of dairy, seize this exciting opportunity! We process applications on a continuous basis and close the job opening once the right candidate has been found but please do not wait and apply as soon as possible.

Shape the Future of Dairy

Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to producing high-quality products while championing sustainability and innovation. We're passionate about people and our planet, striving to unleash the full potential in each of us. Our goal is to make healthy dairy nutrition and good food habits accessible to all. Join us at Arla Foods and become part of a worldwide cooperative dedicated to making a significant impact on the planet and steering the dairy industry towards a sustainable future.

We are devoted to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Diversity and collaboration are key to our success, propelling us to new heights in the dairy industry.

#LI-ALETY

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