Spirits Category Manager

Position

Spirits Category Manager

Department

Sales & Marketing

Reports to

General Manager

Location

Bahrain

About the Company & Role Purpose

The Spirits Category Manager is responsible for overseeing and developing the spirits portfolio across all channels, including on-trade, off-trade, and retail. This role aims to maximize profitability and sales by curating a diverse, innovative, and market-leading selection of spirits, including premium brands, mainstream favorites, and emerging categories like craft spirits and artisanal liquors. The manager will engage consumers through new product launches, tastings, educational initiatives, and promotional events while ensuring GBI's reputation as the premier destination for curated spirits selections.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ACTIVITIES

General

Portfolio Management & Performance Analysis:

· Own the spirits category P&L, pricing strategies, demand planning, and forecasting.

· Prepare and analyze monthly sales, depletion reports, and inventory levels to inform strategic decisions.

· Assess new product performance and generate insights to support business growth.

· Conduct weekly market and competitor analysis to identify opportunities and risks.

· Maintain and refine the spirits portfolio based on market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data.

· Monitor and manage slow-moving spirits, developing strategies for increased sales or delisting.

· Support pricing strategies to ensure competitive and profitable price points.

· Advise on delisting underperforming products and managing overstock issues.

Product Sourcing & Supplier Relations:

· Identify, source, and evaluate new spirits products aligned with industry trends and customer demand.

· Request pricing information and negotiate supplier terms effectively.

· Maintain effective communication with suppliers to ensure product availability and accurate information.

· Evaluate the sustainability, authenticity, and market relevance of new spirits for long-term inclusion.

Market & Customer Engagement:

· Lead and organize spirits tastings, masterclasses, and promotional activations to enhance customer engagement.

· Develop and implement strategies for on-trade and off-trade activities to increase brand visibility.

· Play a key role in creating and updating spirits lists, facilitating spirits education initiatives.

· Organize and lead spirits events to promote offerings, foster loyalty, and increase sales.

· Engage directly with clients to address inquiries, gather feedback, and improve customer experience.

Sales & Business Development Support:

· Collaborate with Heads of Departments to incorporate the spirits portfolio into their sales and marketing initiatives.

· Support sales teams with spirits list/menu development and trade proposals.

· Lead retail merchandising efforts to optimize product presentation and sales opportunities.

Training & Staff Development:

· Provide regular spirits training sessions for sales and retail staff to enhance product knowledge and sales techniques.

· Ensure staff are well-equipped to educate and engage customers about spirits offerings.

Reporting & Data Management:

· Deliver accurate reporting via Salesforce/CRM and BI dashboards such as Power BI/Tableau.

· Track market and competitor activities, providing insights and strategic recommendations.

· Regularly analyze sales and inventory data to refine strategies and enhance portfolio performance.

Other Responsibilities:

· Undertake any additional duties necessary to support business growth.

· Continually develop the spirits portfolio to stay ahead of industry trends and customer preferences.

BACKGROUND, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Qualifications

· 5+ years in spirits/category management or related commercial roles (GCC experience preferred).

· Strong commercial acumen regarding pricing, margins, stock control, and depletion analysis.

Skills

· Extensive knowledge of spirits, including premium brands, craft spirits, and emerging categories.

· Confident presenter and trainer capable of engaging staff and customers effectively.

· Proficient in Salesforce/CRM, Power BI/Tableau, and Excel.

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.

Job Type: Full-time