Category Manager

Lucy Walker Recruitment; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Category Manager for a global FMCG business in Leeds. This role involves developing and executing category strategies, enhancing brand performance, and managing key retailer relationships. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of FMCG experience, strong analytical and communication skills, and a passion for category management. A hybrid work structure is offered with a competitive salary package.

Benefits

Company car/allowance

Personal and professional development

Qualifications

• 2-3 years' commercial experience in FMCG.
• Demonstrable experience with category management principles.
• Confident communicator with strong influencing skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evolve the category strategy.
• Manage the brand portfolio and identify new opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with key retailers.

Skills

Commercial experience in FMCG

Strong analytical capability

Confident communicator

Tools

Circana (IRI)

Kantar

ProSpace

Job description

Category Manager

Salary: 40,000 + company car/allowance

Structure: Hybrid - minimum 2 days in the office per week

Location: Leeds

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Category Manager to join a global FMCG business at their Leeds office. In this role, you will lead the development and execution of the category strategy, driving growth, enhancing brand performance and supporting key retail partners. This role requires a strategic thinker who can build strong external relationships and collaborate effectively across commercial functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and evolve the category strategy to drive brand and category growth.
• Manage the brand portfolio by analysing performance and identifying new opportunities.
• Conduct regular store visits to monitor customer behaviour, execution and emerging trends.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key retailers as a trusted category expert.
• Deliver robust insights and commercial storytelling that convert data into actionable plans.
• Lead range reviews and merchandising projects to maximise space, visibility and performance.
• Work with retailers on product placement, pricing, assortment and promotional strategies.
• Contribute to brand strategy during Brand Review Meetings.
• Provide regular commercial updates and contribute to internal performance discussions.
• Monitor account KPIs, identifying risks, opportunities and required interventions.
• Participate actively in account team meetings, sharing insights to drive continuous improvement.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a high-performing team within a well-established organisation, with scope for personal and professional development.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 2-3 years' commercial experience in FMCG, ideally within a branded or category-focused role.
• Demonstrable experience applying category management principles with major retailers.
• Experience with Circana (IRI) and Kantar; ProSpace desirable.
• Strong analytical capability with the ability to interpret data and generate insight.
• Confident communicator with strong influencing and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive and driven, with a positive 'can-do' attitude.
• Effective team player with strong collaboration abilities.
• Passionate about food and category management, with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• High integrity, resilience and persistence, even in challenging situations.

Please note, due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to every individual. If you have not heard back within 7 days, please assume your application is unsuccessful.