Vivian Santos

I always believe that it is the individual’s character, attitude and determination that matters most. Why I say so?? I graduated year 2000 with a degree of Bachelor of Science major in Computer Science in Manila Philippines. In less than two months, I joined Landmark Management Services Ltd, as Merchandiser. I started as encoder and got familiarize with the data and information in retail segment, I learn how to communicate effectively and professionally. Thanks to my superior as they guided me all the way until I was promoted as Junior Buyer. I was given the opportunity to handle my own brand like Guess, Kipling, Le Sportsac and others. Year 2005, I was given the opportunity by Sharaf Retail as Buyer for AIIZ, Bbush and Sanrio. Being new to this country I have to adopt with the new environment, new market, new company and new challenges. As a single parent and an individual who would like to succeed in life, I am determined to pursue. I help to grow the brands, we opened new stores in all leading shopping malls in GCC and help increase the turnover and profit margin of the brand that provides growth in the company. Realizing the potential of Sanrio and with the increase number of franchise retail stores from 2 to 19 across GCC, I was promoted as Senior Buyer year 2009. I brought different suppliers and licensees to the brand making Sanrio stores a multiple category shop. I build a professional relationship with the vendor with different approach on price negotiation, contract deals, deliveries, product requirements and others. As such, brand turnover grows and margin increase from 48% to 58%. Opportunity never stops joined Simba Toys Middle East year 2015 as Product Category Manager. I manage multiple toy categories of different toy brands and distribute across MENA. I have my career milestone here as I contribute for the license acquisition of Dubai Police and Dubai Ambulance Toy projects. I manage this very special project and we distribute it worldwide. Dubai Police toys was launch April 2016 and it was a very successful project. In less than a year it contributes a sales of almost USD 700K. With almost 21 years of experience, with strength in product procurement, product management and development, I believe that I can be a great contribution within an organization. There still a lot of things to learn, to indulge and to pursue but nothing is impossible. And I am