Category Manager

1st Executive; England; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment consultancy is seeking a highly driven Category Manager to oversee and optimize a defined category of products/services. The role involves developing category strategies, managing supplier relationships, and analyzing market trends to drive profitability. Candidates should have strong analytical skills and proven experience in a similar role. A Bachelor's degree in Business or related field is preferred. This position is located in the United Kingdom.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Category Manager, Buyer, or similar role.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the category strategy aligned with business goals.
• Analyze sales data and market trends to identify opportunities.
• Manage product assortment, pricing, and promotional activities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Commercial mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain or related field

Tools

Excel

Job description

Overview

I am recruiting a highly driven and strategic Category Manager for a fast paced, dynamic, and expanding business to oversee and optimize a defined category of products/services. The role involves developing category strategies, managing supplier relationships, analyzing market trends, and driving profitability while ensuring customer satisfaction. You will play a key role in shaping the product mix, pricing, promotions, and long-term growth strategy of the category.

Key Duties

• Develop and execute the category strategy aligned with business goals.
• Analyze sales data, customer insights, and market trends to identify opportunities and risks.
• Define and manage the product assortment, pricing, and promotional activities.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to maximize profitability.
• Monitor category performance metrics (sales, margin, stock levels, turnover, etc.) and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with marketing, supply chain, finance, and sales teams to ensure effective execution of category plans.
• Conduct regular competitor and market analysis to stay ahead of trends.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors, ensuring compliance with company policies.
• Drive innovation and new product introductions within the category.
• Optimize inventory levels and ensure efficient supply chain management.

Experience required

• Bachelor\'s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or related field (preferred not essential)
• Proven experience (X+ years) as a Category Manager, Buyer, or similar role.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinker with a customer-centric and commercial mindset.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
• Familiarity with retail, food, or FMCG industry is a strong plus.