Assistant Manager - Brand

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Assistant Manager - Brand

🔹 Company: Apparel Group

🔹 Location: United Arab Emirates

🔹 Job Type: Full time

🔹 Category: Retail Apparel and Fashion

🔹 Date Posted: July 21, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Supporting brand strategy execution to drive commercial performance and enhance customer engagement
• Coordinating with cross-functional teams to implement merchandise plans, marketing initiatives, and brand standards
• Analyzing market data and competitor insights to support brand performance analysis and strategic planning
• Providing project and administration support for new store openings, refits, and brand rollouts

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of fashion/lifestyle retail dynamics and customer behavior, as well as proven ability to support brand strategy execution and cross-functional coordination.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Supporting the execution of brand strategies to drive sales and profitability of brand stores in line with business targets

✅ Assisting in the execution of brand launch and expansion strategies across territories

✅ Monitoring store productivity and assisting in deploying resources to maximize sell-through

✅ Coordinating with teams to ensure adherence to financial plans, including sales, margin, markdowns, and inventory

✅ Gathering and analyzing feedback on brand performance, customer expectations, and store execution

✅ Supporting the preparation of merchandise plans based on sales forecasts, stock levels, and promotional calendars

✅ Coordinating with buying teams for product selection aligned with brand identity and seasonal direction

✅ Assisting in stock allocation, in-season performance tracking, and product lifecycle management

✅ Monitoring replenishment needs and stock health across stores in collaboration with planning and operations

✅ Ensuring store-level brand execution in alignment with visual merchandising standards

✅ Supporting the implementation of branding and marketing strategies, including promotions and seasonal campaigns

✅ Assisting in coordinating loyalty initiatives such as Club Apparel to enhance customer engagement

✅ Collecting market data and competitor insights to support brand performance analysis and strategic planning

✅ Providing inputs on product trends, pricing strategies, and localization needs based on regional feedback

✅ Assisting in evaluating new site opportunities and assessing brand positioning within new trade areas

✅ Coordinating with operations, marketing, and projects teams for new store openings, refits, and brand rollouts

✅ Ensuring timely execution of store opening plans and alignment with brand guidelines

✅ Tracking project progress and maintaining documentation for internal reporting and approvals

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, or a related field

Experience: 5-7 years of experience in brand management, retail operations, or merchandising within a retail environment

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to support brand strategy execution, cross-functional coordination, and retail performance improvement
• Strong understanding of fashion/lifestyle retail dynamics and customer behavior
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and retail-specific software

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in Arabic and/or other local languages
• Experience working in the GCC region
• Knowledge of the local retail market and consumer trends

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in fast-paced retail environments and a proven track record of driving brand growth and profitability will be strongly considered.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AED 15,000 - 25,000 per month (Based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Employee discounts on Apparel Group brands

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with flexibility to work additional hours as needed to meet business demands

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the UAE. Actual compensation may vary based on individual qualifications and experience.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: The Apparel Group is a leading retail and hospitality conglomerate in the GCC and India, focusing on value fashion retailing.

Company Size: The Apparel Group has 1,001-5,000 employees, providing a mid-sized company environment with opportunities for growth and development.

Founded: The Apparel Group was founded in 2012, with R&B (R&B Arabia) being one of its key brands.

Company Description:

• The Apparel Group offers a dynamic and vibrant work environment, with a strong focus on employee growth and development.
• The company provides a wide range of products, including apparel, footwear, accessories, cosmetics, and household products, catering to diverse customer needs.
• The Apparel Group is committed to bringing the latest international fashion trends to its customers at affordable prices, with a strong emphasis on quality and value.

Company Specialties:

• Retail fashion and apparel
• Hospitality and F&B
• Loyalty programs (Club Apparel)

Company Website: http://www.randbfashion.com

ASSUMPTION: Working for the Apparel Group offers opportunities to gain experience in a fast-paced, multicultural environment with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and brand growth.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is suitable for experienced professionals looking to advance their careers in brand management or retail operations.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Manager - Brand reports directly to the Brand Manager and works closely with cross-functional teams, including merchandising, marketing, and operations.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site role, with the possibility of occasional remote work for specific tasks or projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to a Brand Manager or similar role within the Apparel Group
• Expanding responsibilities and leading cross-functional projects
• Gaining experience in different aspects of retail management and brand development

ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for career growth and development within the Apparel Group, with a focus on driving brand success and enhancing customer engagement.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The Apparel Group's offices are modern and vibrant, reflecting the dynamic nature of the retail industry.

Office Location(s): The Apparel Group has offices in key locations across the GCC and India, with this role based in the United Arab Emirates.

Geographic Context:

• The UAE offers a multicultural environment with a strong retail industry, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
• The UAE's strategic location and business-friendly environment make it an ideal place for international brands to establish a presence.
• The UAE's retail market is diverse, with a mix of local, regional, and international brands catering to various customer segments.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, with the possibility of working additional hours as needed to meet business demands.

ASSUMPTION: Working in the UAE offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and professional opportunities, with a strong focus on customer service and brand development.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission
• Phone or video screening
• Face-to-face interview with the hiring manager and/or other team members
• Final interview or assessment, if required

Key Assessment Areas:

• Brand management and strategy execution
• Cross-functional coordination and teamwork
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role.
• Provide specific examples of your achievements in brand management, retail operations, or merchandising.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the fashion/lifestyle retail industry and customer behavior in your application materials.

ATS Keywords: Brand Management, Retail Operations, Merchandising, Sales Forecasting, Product Coordination, Market Intelligence, Customer Engagement, Visual Merchandising, Financial Planning, Cross-Functional Coordination, Project Management, Data Analysis, Stock Allocation, Promotional Strategies, Loyalty Initiatives, Trend Analysis

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may vary, and it is essential to follow the instructions provided in the job listing and on the company's career portal.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Retail-specific software (e.g., merchandising, planning, or inventory management systems)
• Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI)

ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant retail-specific software is essential for this role, with the possibility of learning new tools and technologies as needed.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Customer-centricity
• Innovation and continuous improvement
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Integrity and accountability

Work Style:

• Dynamic and fast-paced
• Results-driven and focused on achieving business targets
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Adaptable and responsive to change

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you align with the Apparel Group's customer-centric approach to retail?
• Can you provide an example of a time when you drove brand growth and profitability through effective strategy execution?
• How do you handle working in a fast-paced, dynamic retail environment, and what strategies do you use to manage your workload and priorities?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with the Apparel Group's values and work style will be more likely to succeed in this role and contribute to the company's ongoing success.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced retail environment
• Adapting to changes in business strategies, market trends, or customer preferences
• Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams, including remote or virtual team members
• Navigating a diverse and multicultural work environment

ASSUMPTION: Addressing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a customer-focused mindset, with a willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic retail environment.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other brand management roles, this position places a stronger emphasis on cross-functional coordination and retail performance improvement.
• In the GCC retail market, this role may require a deeper understanding of local customer preferences and market dynamics.
• Career progression in this role may involve moving into a Brand Manager position or exploring opportunities in other aspects of retail management or brand development.

ASSUMPTION: Understanding the unique aspects of this role and how it compares to similar positions in the industry can help applicants tailor their application materials and prepare for the interview process.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and implementing a seasonal marketing campaign to drive brand awareness and customer engagement
• Analyzing sales data and market trends to inform merchandise planning and product selection
• Coordinating with operations and marketing teams to ensure successful store openings, refits, or brand rollouts

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects provide insight into the types of tasks and responsibilities that may be encountered in this role, allowing applicants to demonstrate their relevant skills and experiences in their application materials.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the brand's target customer and how this role contributes to enhancing customer engagement?
• How does this role collaborate with other departments, and what are the key priorities for the first 90 days in this position?
• What are the most significant challenges facing the brand in the current market, and how can this role address them?
• How does the Apparel Group support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how are they measured and tracked?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and relevant questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and provides valuable insights into the company's culture, priorities, and expectations.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through http://www.randbfashion.com/careers
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, using the ATS keywords provided.
• Prepare for the interview by researching the Apparel Group, its brands, and the retail market in the UAE.
• Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submitting your application to express your interest in the role.

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.