FMCG Category Manager

Vickerstock; Newtownabbey; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Vickerstock, in partnership with a growing wholesale and distribution business, is recruiting a Category Manager in Newtownabbey to drive procurement and supply chain performance for assigned brands.

You will analyse market trends, negotiate with suppliers, manage inventory, and collaborate with marketing to position products and maximise profitability while ensuring optimal stock levels and service.

Qualifications

• Three years' experience in a fast-paced wholesale, distribution or retail environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Solid understanding of pricing strategies, margin management and profitability optimisation.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, ERP systems and reporting/analytics platforms.

Responsibilities

• Manage product assortments, pricing, promotions and inventory levels to maximise brand performance.
• Oversee range reviews, SKU creation, stock rationalisation and inventory clearance activities.
• Develop and implement brand strategies supporting revenue growth and market expansion.
• Maintain brand management processes and ensure daily, weekly and monthly activities are completed on schedule.
• Monitor KPIs, identify opportunities for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Lead Inventory & Supply Chain Management activities and collaborate with suppliers.
• Develop pricing structures and promotional plans to enhance competitiveness and profitability.
• Work with marketing to develop product positioning and messaging.
• Review customer feedback and drive improvements to customer satisfaction.

Skills

Analytical skills

Pricing knowledge

Inventory management understanding

ERP systems experience

Excel proficiency

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Location: Newtownabbey
Salary: £40-45k
Job type: Supply Chain / Procurement
Industry: FMCG

Vickerstock are working in partnership with a growing wholesale and distribution business who are going from strength to strength and as a result of promotion, now have a Category Manager position available.

As the Category Manager you will be responsible for driving the performance and growth of assigned brands from a procurement and supply chain perspective. The role involves analysing market trends, managing supplier relationships, negotiating commercial agreements, and ensuring optimal product availability and inventory performance.

• Reports To: Procurement & Supply Chain Manager
• Hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm (40 hours per week)
  

Category Manager Key Responsibilities

• Manage product assortments, pricing, promotions, and inventory levels to maximise brand performance.
• Oversee range reviews, SKU creation, exceptional purchasing requirements, stock rationalisation, and inventory clearance activities.
• Develop and implement brand strategies that support business objectives, revenue growth, profitability, and market expansion.
• Maintain effective brand management processes and tools, ensuring all daily, weekly, and monthly activities are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Monitor brand performance using key performance indicators (KPIs), identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing corrective actions where required.
• Inventory & Supply Chain Management
• Lead and support the Inventory Planner to ensure appropriate stock availability, inventory levels, purchasing routines, and supply chain challenges are effectively managed.
• Work collaboratively to maintain efficient replenishment processes and minimise stock-related risks.
• Analyse market trends, sales data, supplier insights, and competitor activity to identify growth opportunities and potential gaps within the market.
• Support the development of pricing structures and promotional plans that enhance competitiveness and profitability.
• Use data and commercial insights to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and brand partners.
• Negotiate favourable commercial terms and collaborate with suppliers to enhance product offerings and overall brand performance.
• Work closely with marketing teams to develop effective product positioning, messaging, and communication strategies.
• Review customer feedback and implement improvements to strengthen customer satisfaction, loyalty, and overall experience.

Category Manager Criteria

• Three year's experience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment (wholesale, distribution, retail, food-service)
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Sound understanding of pricing strategies, margin management, and profitability optimisation.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, ERP systems, and reporting/analytics platforms.