Category Manager - Crisps, Snack & Nuts

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS); Wellingborough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Category/Buying Manager to join their Retail Grocery team. This role focuses on maximizing profitability for product categories like Crisps, Snacks, and Nuts. You will be responsible for developing category plans, negotiating with suppliers, and enhancing customer satisfaction. The company values diversity and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including discounts and health support. If you have a passion for retail and a proven track record in FMCG, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a leading wholesaler.

Benefits

Colleague discount card

Discounted insurance products

Free eye tests

Health checks discounts

Retirement savings plan

Life Assurance cover

Employee Assistance Programme

Virtual GP access

Qualifications

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills are essential.
• Previous buying experience and extensive FMCG experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category plans to meet sales and profit targets.
• Negotiate annually with suppliers for favorable terms.
• Respond to customer feedback to shape category plans.

Skills

Communication Skills

Stakeholder Management

Problem-Solving

Attention to Detail

Data Interpretation

Education

Degree in Business or related field

Job description

About the role

Reporting to: Lead Category Manager
Based: Wellingborough, Eccles, or Watford

Job Summary: Maximising the profitability of specified product categories, improving customer satisfaction, and cash profit.

We are looking to recruit a Category / Buying Manager in the Retail Grocery team, responsible for Crisps, Snacks & Nuts, based at either our Eccles, Wellingborough, or Watford offices.

What is in it for you

At Booker, we offer a great working environment and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• A Booker colleague card with 10% off purchases and double discount events up to three times a year.
• After 3 months, a Tesco colleague discount card with 10% increasing to 15% off most purchases, plus discounts at Tesco Cafe and F&F.
• 10% off pay monthly & SIM-only deals with Tesco Mobile, and other deals throughout the year.
• Up to 30% off insurance products through Tesco Bank.
• Free eye tests and discounts on glasses and contact lenses.
• 50% off health checks at Tesco Pharmacy.
• Discounted RAC breakdown cover.
• Access to a deals website and cycle to work scheme.
• After 3 months, eligibility for the Save As You Earn share scheme.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Life Assurance cover.
• Health and Wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance Programme and Virtual GP.

You will be responsible for

• Developing and implementing category plans to meet sales, margin, and profit targets while maintaining product availability.
• Growing own brand business and sourcing products to enhance sales and margins.
• Negotiating annually with suppliers for favorable terms.
• Responding to customer feedback to shape category plans and improve satisfaction.
• Handling customer queries and complaints professionally and promptly.
• Communicating category plans effectively to ensure understanding and buy-in.
• Ensuring product ranges reflect good, better, and best principles.
• Collaborating with the team to identify opportunities and improve processes.
• Adhering to our Business Code of Conduct, acting with integrity, and promoting diversity and inclusion.

You will need

Operational skills:

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently, problem-solve, and make commercial decisions.
• Attention to detail, report writing, data interpretation, and record keeping skills.
• Knowledge of relevant markets and developments.
• Flexibility in work approach.

Experience:

• Previous buying experience preferred.
• Extensive experience in FMCG.
• Proven ability to work autonomously.
• Experience in developing and managing marketing campaigns.

About us

Booker is the UK's leading food & drink wholesaler, serving independent retailers, caterers, and small businesses across the country. We operate over 190 branches, distribution centres, logistics sites, and support centres.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to our values. We welcome flexible working arrangements and are committed to accessibility and inclusivity in our recruitment process. For support, contact [e-mail].

Please note: Candidates must be over 18 for roles involving early mornings, late evenings, warehouse work, alcohol, or driving. Roles may close early if high volumes of applications are received. We only provide interview feedback to candidates who attend an interview.

Booker Group is part of Tesco plc but operates separately, offering different benefits. For more info, visit www.bookergroupjobs.co.uk.