Trading Manager – Building Materials

Overview

We are looking for a skilled and commercially astute Trading Manager to launch and develop a building materials trading enterprise in Qatar. This leadership role goes beyond procurement, demanding expertise in end-to-end trading activities such as sourcing, supplier development, product assortment, pricing, importing, inventory management, store establishment, sales generation, and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Create the entire building materials trade operation from the ground up, defining the business model, product range, sourcing network, store logistics, and sales approach.
• Build and sustain an extensive database of local and international manufacturers, suppliers, vendors, distributors, and brands.
• Source competitively priced products directly from global markets including Qatar, GCC, China, India, Turkey, and Europe.
• Identify appropriate products, brands, agencies, and distributorship prospects tailored for the Qatar market.
• Oversee the complete trading cycle from sourcing and contract negotiation to importation, inventory control, pricing, distribution, and sales closure.
• Set up and launch the building materials retail outlet, managing product choice, stock strategy, merchandising, pricing structures, and daily operations.
• Develop a comprehensive portfolio ranging from minor hardware supplies to major construction and finishing materials.
• Negotiate supplier pricing, credit terms, exclusivity, distributorships, and other commercial agreements.
• Formulate pricing and margin tactics that ensure competitiveness and profitability.
• Establish sales channels and generate revenue from contractors, developers, construction firms, FM companies, retailers, workshops, and walk-in customers.
• Maintain optimal inventory levels by analyzing market demand, product movement, lead times, and sales forecasts.
• Identify fast-selling, profitable items suited for the local market.
• Keep abreast of competitor pricing, market changes, construction trends, and new product opportunities.
• Build and lead a team covering store operations, trading, sales, and other functions as business scales.
• Take full accountability for revenue, gross margin, profitability, stock turnover, and overall business expansion.

Product Expertise

• Hardware, fasteners, fixings, screws, bolts, and consumables
• Hand and power tools
• Plumbing components including pipes, fittings, valves, and accessories
• Electrical materials and accessories
• Sanitary ware and bathroom fittings
• Paints, coatings, and related supplies
• Waterproofing materials, sealants, adhesives, and construction chemicals
• Cement, blocks, gypsum, and related construction substances
• Steel and metal products
• Tiles, flooring, and finishing materials
• Doors, locks, ironmongery, and architectural hardware
• Safety gear and personal protective equipment
• HVAC and MEP consumables
• General construction and maintenance materials

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Commerce, Engineering, or related disciplines.
• Extensive experience of 8 to 12 years in building materials trading, wholesale distribution, or commercial operations.
• Preferably familiar with the Qatar building materials market.
• Existing database and network of suppliers, vendors in Qatar and internationally is essential.
• Demonstrated expertise in sourcing directly from manufacturers and successfully negotiating competitive commercial arrangements.
• Comprehensive understanding of the building materials trading lifecycle beyond just purchasing or procurement roles.
• Proven experience in creating or expanding building materials retail or trading enterprises.
• Knowledge of import logistics, shipping, landed cost calculation, inventory management, pricing strategies, margins, and distribution channels.
• Track record of generating sales, acquiring clients, and leading business development efforts.
• Established contacts with contractors, developers, construction firms, facility management companies, retailers, and other relevant stakeholders highly valuable.
• Experience in securing agency, dealership, or exclusive distributorship contracts is advantageous.
• Familiarity with ERP, POS systems, inventory controls, and sales analytics reporting.
• Excellent commercial negotiation, supplier relations, sales techniques, and business development skills.
• Entrepreneurial drive with a proven ability to build and scale a business from initiation.
• Valid driving license issued in Qatar is mandatory.

Compensation

The salary offered ranges between QAR 5,500 and QAR 6,500 monthly.