Beverages Category Manager: Growth & Strategy

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Training opportunities

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Category Manager specializing in Beverages to drive the growth and profitability of the beverage portfolio in Midrand, Gauteng. You will shape category strategies, analyze trends, and influence cross-functional teams across sales, marketing, and supply chain.

The role requires a strong commercial acumen, deep beverage market knowledge, and a proven ability to negotiate with suppliers to optimize assortment and pricing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, or a related field; Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in category management, brand management, or a similar strategic role within the FMCG sector, with a focus on beverages.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful category strategies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent understanding of the South African beverage market and consumer trends.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools and retail/category management software.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation abilities.
• Experience working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment like Midrand.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies that drive sales, market share, and profitability for the beverage portfolio.
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis, including consumer behavior, competitor activities, and industry trends.
• Manage product assortment, pricing, promotions, and placement to maximize category performance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key beverage suppliers and negotiate favorable terms.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop and execute effective go-to-market plans.
• Monitor category performance metrics, analyze sales data, and identify key insights and action plans.
• Ensure effective inventory management and supply chain coordination for the beverage category.
• Present category insights and strategic recommendations to senior management.

Skills

Category management

Beverages expertise

Data analysis

Negotiation

Collaboration

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Marketing/Economics

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Category management software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Category Manager specializing in Beverages to drive the growth and profitability of the beverage portfolio in Midrand, Gauteng. You will shape category strategies, analyze trends, and influence cross-functional teams across sales, marketing, and supply chain.

The role requires a strong commercial acumen, deep beverage market knowledge, and a proven ability to negotiate with suppliers to optimize assortment and pricing.