Working in the Middle East offers far more than just a tax free salary, it’s an opportunity to embrace a totally different culture and way of life.

Middle East Retail is no longer a ‘license to print money’. The current economic downturn is affecting the region whilst whatever remains of the cake must still be divided up between the many retailers operating there.

Unlike the UK market, customers shop several times a week – it is a major form of social entertainment. Customers are looking for a constant ‘newness’, something which should never be underestimated by retailers.

High fashion value retailers such as New Look, H&M and Forever 21 traditionally trade very well as they offer customers what they are always looking for – constantly updated looks at low prices.

At the other end of the spectrum is the high end, designer-led market. There are many customers with seemingly unlimited wealth, where exceptional customer service is imperative to the experience.

Working in Middle East Retail is a truly multi-cultural experience – whether in store or head office based, you will be managing teams from diverse cultural backgrounds. For many it’s their first experience away from their home countries which requires a highly flexible approach – what works for one person could cause offense for another. This can be very challenging but hugely rewarding.

And of course there’s the Arabic way of doing business – lots of cups of tea and informal chats before you get down to the nitty-gritty together with an appreciation of ‘wasta’ – it’s not what you know but who you know!

Alex Bannard, our Director of Buying & Merchandising Recruitment, moved from London to Kuwait in 2005 as a single professional to continue her career in Retail. Within three short years she had also met and married her husband and started a family. Alex moved with her family to Istanbul earlier this year.

Alex's expertise in merchandising and in recruitment, coupled with her international experience, means she is ideally suited to advise our clients and candidates on UK and International roles. She is best contacted on her mobile (+90 53 8621 4937) or drop her an email on ab@bluemondayrecruitment.com