Category Manager

LKQ Europe; Tamworth; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global organization is seeking a strategic Category Manager to drive category growth and innovation. In this pivotal role, you'll lead a high-performing team, manage product lifecycles, and collaborate across functions. You'll enjoy a competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package supporting work-life balance.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Enhanced Annual Leave

Exciting Career Growth

Life Assurance

24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

Exclusive Gym Discounts

Comprehensive Healthcare Perks

Cycle to Work Scheme

Retail & Staff Discounts

Qualifications

• Experience in Category Management and B2B & B2C strategies.
• Ability to lead and influence across a global organisation.
• Proven track record of team development and project management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute 3-Year business plans across key categories.
• Lead a team of Regional Product Managers and drive performance.
• Manage full product lifecycle from launch to exit.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Customer-obsessed mindset

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Education

Business Management degree

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

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Job Overview

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for driving category growth and delivering measurable results? Do you thrive in dynamic, high-impact environments where your leadership can shape the future of a business? If so, we want to hear from you.
We're seeking a Category Manager to lead a high-performing category business unit within a leading, global organisation. This is a pivotal role focused on accelerating business growth, driving innovation, and delivering exceptional value across all channels - Trade SMR, Key Accounts, and Retail.

Why work for LKQ

• People First: We value our employees just as much as our customers.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working options to support your lifestyle.
• Career Growth: Genuine opportunities for progression in a thriving industry.
• Passion for Excellence: Join a team dedicated to being the best at what we do.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and executing 3-Year business plans across all key categories and channels
• Leading a team of Regional Product Managers, developing talent, and fostering a culture of high performance
• Managing full product lifecycle from launch to exit, including E&O mitigation
• Driving strategic supplier negotiations, contracts, and rebate agreements
• Collaborating cross-functionally with Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Sales to align strategy with execution
• Delivering on category KPIs including sales growth, market share, cost savings, and customer satisfaction
• Continuously improving processes to drive direct and indirect savings

Skills and Experience

• Customer-obsessed mindset with a strategic eye for category and product development
• A Business Management degree (or equivalent experience)
• Strong experience in Category Management and delivering B2B & B2C strategies
• Ability to lead and influence across a matrixed, global organisation
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills - confident presenting to Executive Board level
• Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis skills
• Proven track record of team development and project management

What we offer

• Competitive Salary - We regularly review our salaries to keep your earnings competitive.
• Enhanced Annual Leave (Including Bank Holidays) - Enjoy a great work-life balance with plenty of time off to recharge.
• Exciting Career Growth - Unlock personal development and career opportunities across the UK & Europe.
• Life Assurance for Peace of Mind - Providing financial security for you and your loved ones.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme - Confidential support for you and your family, whenever you need it.
• Exclusive Gym Discounts - Stay fit and healthy with reduced memberships at top health clubs.
• Comprehensive Healthcare Perks - Access an online GP, a hospital plan, and other wellness benefits.
• Cycle to Work Scheme - Save money while staying active with tax-free bike purchases.
• Retail & Staff Discounts - Enjoy exclusive savings on popular brands and products.