Category Manager (FMCG industry)

Ad Talent Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 720,000 - 960,000; Full time

Job summary

A distinguished FMCG business is seeking an experienced category manager to inform product strategies, manage budgets, and negotiate supplier contracts. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of marketing and sales dynamics in the FMCG sector. This is an excellent opportunity for South African candidates looking for an expat role in Zambia.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a category manager or similar role in FMCG.
• Strong understanding of marketing, sales, and category management principles.
• High proficiency in data analysis, market research, and forecasting techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct market and trend analysis to inform product category strategies.
• Develop and manage budget for the category, ensuring profitability.
• Negotiate terms and contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous agreements.

Skills

Data Analysis

Market Research

Forecasting Techniques

Negotiation Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Strategic Thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration

Bachelor’s degree in marketing

Tools

Oracle ERP

Power BI

MS Office

Job description

Who are we : A distinguished FMCG business headquartered in Zambia, with a strategic presence across the African continent.

Who are we looking for : A category manager who has has worked within the FMCG industry.

This role is based in Zambia and open to South African candidates looking for an expat opportunity).

What will you do :

• Market and Trend Analysis : Thoroughly analyze sales, industry trends and consumer behavior to inform product category strategies.
• Strategic Development : Formulate and implement long-term strategies for product category growth and sustainability.
• Product Lifecycle Management : Develop and execute exit strategies for underperforming products, ensuring focus on successful and profitable items.
• Demand Forecasting : Accurately predict product demand to maintain efficient inventory levels, avoiding overstock and stock-outs.
• Pricing Strategy : Work closely with the sales teams to set competitive pricing, balancing profitability and market competitiveness.
• Promotional Activities : Coordinate with marketing and sales teams to devise effective promotional campaigns for the product category.
• Category Expansion : Conduct research and / or collaborate with buyers and sales teams to identify opportunities for category expansion and diversification.
• Sales Analysis : Review sales performance data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and areas of growth.
• Budget Development and Management : Work under the guidance of function heads to develop and manage the budget for the category, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Supplier Contract Negotiation : Negotiate terms and contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous agreements.
• Product Positioning : Determine optimal product positioning within the market to maximize visibility and appeal to target consumers.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration : Work closely with various internal teams, such as R&D, supply chain and finance, to align category strategy with overall business objectives.
• Market Research : Conduct and interpret market research to stay ahead of industry changes and competitor strategies.
• Consumer Insights : Leverage consumer insights to refine product offerings and tailor strategies to customer preferences.

What do you need :

• Proven experience as a category manager or similar role in FMCG or related industry.
• Strong understanding of marketing, sales, and category management principles.
• High proficiency in data analysis, market research, and forecasting techniques.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with a robust analytical mindset.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or related fields.
• Strong understanding of brand management and brand strategy is critical.
• Proficiency with Oracle ERP, Power BI and MS Office essential.