Category Manager

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health benefits

Employee discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Category Manager for its FMCG portfolio in Mossel Bay, offering a hybrid work arrangement. You will drive category strategy, analyze market trends, and optimize supplier relationships to grow sales, profitability, and market share within a dynamic Western Cape market.

The role requires a strong analytical mindset, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of retail dynamics to deliver category growth and sustained performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing or related field.
• MBA is a plus for deeper strategic insight.
• Minimum 6 years in category management, merchandising, or brand management in FMCG.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitor activity to identify growth and risks.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate terms, and optimize category assortment.
• Develop and implement promotional and pricing strategies to maximise sales and profitability.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales and operations to execute category plans.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with supply chain for availability.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing

MBA (advantageous)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the FMCG sector, is looking for a strategic and insightful Category Manager to join their dedicated commercial team based in Mossel Bay . In this role, you will be responsible for the overall strategy, performance, and growth of specific product categories within their extensive portfolio. You will leverage market insights, consumer data, and strong supplier relationships to drive category sales, profitability, and market share. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially astute individual to take ownership of key categories, influence product assortment, and contribute directly to the business's success within the vibrant Western Cape region, with a flexible hybrid work arrangement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies aligned with overall business objectives and market opportunities.
• Analyze sales performance, market trends, and competitor activities to identify growth drivers and potential risks.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate terms, and ensure the optimal product assortment for the category.
• Develop and implement effective promotional and pricing strategies to maximize sales and profitability.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution of category plans.
• Monitor inventory levels and work with supply chain to ensure product availability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in category management , merchandising, or brand management within the FMCG industry .
• Proven ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Excellent understanding of retail and consumer dynamics.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus structure.
• Hybrid work model providing a blend of office and remote flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development in a dynamic industry.
• Employee wellness programs and product discounts.