Marks & Spencer, part of Al-Futtaim Retail division is a world class market leader in high street fashion. Our stores are located through out the Gulf.

The first Marks & Spencer store in the Middle East was opened in Dubai in 1998. Other stores followed shortly in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

2009 will see Marks & Spencer expand further with the opening of new stores in Al Ain, Dubai Mall, Kuwait and Qatar. All stores are large format and carry a wide range of product including Ladieswear, Menswear, Kidswear, Lingerie, Beauty, Home and Food.

We are looking for an experience Marketing Officer to join Marks & Spencer team and to take a part  in a range of marketing activities. You will report directly to the Marketing Manager and responsible for the following:

• Consistent marketing and promoting the M&S brand, cost-effectively and professionally to the GCC, through media advertising, PR, special events and promotions
• Annual budget planning in coordination with Marketing Manager
• Negotiating the best rates and placement of advertisements
• Liaising with the merchandising team to select the appropriate product message to ensure that new season product, value and style messages are communicated to the M&S consumer across the GCC
• Establishing strong relationships with the M&S UK marketing team
• Ensuring that marketing is conducted in both English and Arabic languages
• Building good relationships with various medias across all markets, mall management
• Sending product to be featured and assisting in photo shoots as required
• Representing the brand in various non-work situations and be a spokesperson, maintaining the public brand image
• Designing and sending out e-mail blasts, SMS text messages and all other forms of electronic media to market the brand electronically.

Given the nature of this role, the successful applicant will be required to travel and spend time within GCC and Middle East.

To be successful in winning this role, you will have proven marketing experience and be able to demonstrate:

• Strong communication skills, both English and Arabic
• Negotiation skills
• Decision making ability
• Knowledge of MS Office with strong skills in PowerPoint
• Assertiveness and creativity
• Flexibility
• Willingness to travel within GCC and Middle East

You have to be graduated in marketing discipline and have at least 2 years of experience in a marketing role within an international environment.