Strategic Category Controller - FMCG/Wholesale

Undisclosed; Slough; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Undisclosed in North West London is seeking an experienced Category Controller to lead the category team, develop strategies and gain a competitive edge. You will drive supplier relationships, monitor P&L, and deliver operational excellence across supply chain and compliance.

The role requires senior commercial, buying or trading experience in food retail or FMCG, with strong leadership, negotiation and stakeholder management capabilities.

Qualifications

• Leads a trading/category team with senior stakeholder influence in a multi-functional environment.
• Significant experience in senior commercial, buying or trading roles within food retail or FMCG.
• Ability to negotiate high-impact deals on costing and margin.
• Strong data interpretation skills to inform decisions.
• Experience in managing and developing teams.
• Deep understanding of merchandising, profitability, and supply chain management.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking and accountability for business change.

Responsibilities

• Providing excellent service through customer-centric ranges, price integrity and value, quality assurance and NPS analysis.
• Delivering financial targets via P&L ownership, budget management and sales strategies.
• Leading and developing the Category team of Managers and Assistants.
• Leveraging market position to maintain strong supplier relationships and drive performance.
• Ensuring operational excellence through supply chain oversight, wastage control and compliance & food safety.
• Collaborating with Finance to maximise margin and profitability.

Skills

Leadership

Category management

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Data interpretation

Team development

Supply chain management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Job description

Undisclosed in North West London is seeking an experienced Category Controller to lead the category team, develop strategies and gain a competitive edge. You will drive supplier relationships, monitor P&L, and deliver operational excellence across supply chain and compliance.

The role requires senior commercial, buying or trading experience in food retail or FMCG, with strong leadership, negotiation and stakeholder management capabilities.