Commercial Director

Guildhall is seeking a Commercial Director to lead the commercial strategy and retail operations for our client across its growing hypermarket and supermarket portfolio. Our client is a leading diversified holding group in Libya with operations across retail, supermarkets, hypermarkets, and F&B. The ideal candidate will bring strong regional retail experience, a proven background within major hypermarket chains, and the ability to drive sales, category management, supplier relationships, and overall commercial performance. 

Responsibilities:

Strategic & Financial Leadership 

• P&L Accountability: Own the commercial budget, driving year-over-year revenue growth, sales margins, and overall profitability. 
• Commercial Strategy: Develop and execute strategic business plans tailored to the local retail market, focusing on assortment optimization, competitive pricing, and margin improvement. 
• Market Adaptation: Monitor consumer trends, spending power, and competitor activity in key Libyan cities to adjust product offerings. 

Category Management & Purchasing 

• Buying Operations: Direct the category management and buying teams to secure high-quality FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), fresh produce, and non-food items. 
• Supplier Relations: Build, manage, and scale strategic partnerships with local distributors and international suppliers. 
• Contract Negotiations: Lead high-level commercial negotiations to secure favorable credit terms, volume discounts, and cooperative marketing funds. 

Import & Supply Chain Alignment 

• Inventory & Logistics: Collaborate closely with the Supply Chain and Logistics teams to ensure steady product flow, particularly considering import/export procedures and customs clearance dynamics specific to Libya. 
• Stock Optimization: Minimize out-of-stocks and overstock situations through data-led stock rotation and inventory forecasting. 

Marketing & Merchandising 

• Promotional Strategy: Design and execute seasonal promotions, seasonal campaigns (e.g., Ramadan), and loyalty programs to drive foot traffic. 
• In-Store Experience: Oversee visual merchandising standards and promotional layouts to maximize category visibility and sales per square meter.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Minimum 8–10 years of senior commercial experience in grocery retail, hypermarkets, or FMCG distribution, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity.
• Deep understanding of the MENA retail landscape, import procedures, consumer behavior, and local payment/banking regulations.
• Bilingual proficiency in Arabic and English is essential.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or Supply Chain. A Master's degree or MBA is highly preferred.
• Strong analytical acumen, exceptional negotiation and communication skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Proven track record of delivering revenue growth, margin improvement, and successful supplier negotiations.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing large commercial teams.
• Ability to operate effectively within a fast-paced, multi-site retail environment.