STEO INTO THE BRANDVERSE
WHERE IMAGINATION MEETS IMPACT & IDEAS BECOME ICONS
Apparel Group’s University Challenge, designed to discover the next generation of creative, strategic, and tech-savvy talent shaping the future of retail
WHO WE ARE
Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate residing at the crossroads of the modern economy – Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, Apparel Group caters to thousands of eager shoppers through its 2,500+ retail stores and 85+ brands on all platforms while employing over 27,000+ multicultural staff.
THE CHALLENGE
This is the core of BrandVerse, where creativity meets strategy and bold ideas shape the future of retail.
Your mission is to develop a future-ready strategy that reimagines how a global fashion brand can elevate its market presence, enhance customer engagement, and strengthen long-term profitability in today’s fast-evolving retail landscape
PARTICIPATING BRANDS
Each team will select one brand from the list below as the focus of their challenge entry
ALL THE FOCUS AREAS
Reimagine physical retail through technology, creativity, and engaging store design.
Reimagine physical retail through technology, creativity, and engaging store design. Example Themes: • Interactive Digital Fitting Room – AR-enabled try-on experiences. • Immersive Online Shopping – Virtual showrooms and digital store journeys. • In-Store Gamification – Reward-based, fun interactive retail experiences.
Career Path for the next 2 years
The 1st experience would be a brief assignment to learn about the heart of the company—retail stores. After that, you will experience a rotational programme exposing you to roles like Merchandiser, Buyer, Sales Operations, and Marketing, allowing you to reach a managerial level in the Sales/Marketing profession upon successful completion.
Qualification
MBA in General Management/Sales & Marketing/Retail Management or any relevant major.
Experience
2 – 5 years of relevant retail experience.
Overview
The Digital Transformation Track is designed for individuals with a unique IT expertise and business mindset. We are seeking candidates who excel in IT and possess a deep understanding of how technology intersects with business objectives and strategies. If you have a strong background in IT coupled with a keen sense of business principles, this track is tailored for you.
Career Path for the next 2 years
The 1st experience would be a brief assignment to learn about the heart of the company—retail stores. After that, you will experience a rotational programme that will give you exposure to roles in product management and, upon successful completion, provide you with the potential to reach a managerial level.
Qualification
MBA in Data Management/Information Technology/Cybersecurity or any relevant major.
Experience
2 – 5 years of relevant retail experience.
Overview
The fashion track is designed for individuals passionate about design development and product creation. Your career will involve conceptualising, developing, and overseeing the production of clothing lines, ensuring they align with trends, brand identity, and market demands while collaborating across departments.
Career Path for the next 2 years
The 1st experience would be a brief assignment to learn about the heart of the company – retail stores. With each rotation, you will rotate through positions, focusing on designing for a specific department (Female, Male, or Kids) before independently handling a collection for a particular brand.
Qualification
Bachelor's in Arts/Fashion Design or any relevant major.
Experience
5 - 6 years of experience in either Women's, Men's, or Kids' wear (experience in 1 or more categories is preferred).
Overview
Our Supply Chain Track is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to excel in retail supply chain management. Through targeted learning experiences and guidance from industry experts, participants will explore innovative strategies to drive efficiency. Begin your journey towards excellence in retail supply chain management.
Career Path for the next 2 years
The 1st experience would be a brief assignment to learn about the heart of the company—retail stores. After that, you will experience a rotational programme exposing you to logistics, warehouse management, and merchandising roles. Upon successful completion, you will have the potential to reach a managerial level in the Supply Chain/Warehouse profession.
Qualification
MBA in Operations/Supply Chain/Logistics or any relevant major. Professional certifications such as CILT, Lean Six Sigma Certification, and CSCP are advantageous.
Experience
2 – 5 years of relevant retail experience.
What Can You Expect?
Choose from 4 distinct tracks, preparing you for a pivotal and impactful position.
Receive personalised guidance from experienced professionals, making this the perfect launchpad for your career.
Build connections within a diverse community of graduates, extending your network for future opportunities.
Gain exposure to the GCC market, work with global retail brands, and contribute to the growth of the Apparel Group.
