Category Manager - FMCG Retail

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Employee benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Category Manager for our FMCG client in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will shape category strategy, optimize assortment, and lead pricing and promotions to grow profitability in retail settings.

Applicants should have 4+ years in category/brand management within FMCG, strong analytical skills, and excellent negotiation and communication abilities. Experience with retail partners and cross-functional teams is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of category management experience in FMCG.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop category strategies aligned with company goals and market opportunities.
• Analyze sales data, trends, and competitors to identify growth opportunities.
• Manage product assortment, pricing, and promotions for assigned categories.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, or a related field

Tools

Category management software

Category management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a strategic and results-driven Category Manager to join their dynamic team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This role is crucial in shaping the product assortment, pricing, and promotional strategies for specific categories to maximize sales and profitability within retail environments. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the FMCG retail landscape, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to drive category growth. This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of key product categories and make a tangible impact within a leading organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies that align with overall company goals and market opportunities.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor activities to identify opportunities for category growth and improvement.
• Manage product assortment, pricing, and promotional planning for assigned categories to optimize sales performance and profitability.
• Collaborate closely with the sales team to support key retail accounts and drive category penetration.
• Work with brand management and product development teams to introduce new products and enhance existing offerings.
• Develop compelling category presentations for internal stakeholders and retail partners.
• Monitor inventory levels and work with supply chain teams to ensure product availability and minimize out-of-stocks.
• Build strong relationships with key retail buyers and stakeholders.
• Stay informed about industry trends, consumer behavior, and category best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in category management, brand management, or a similar role within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of driving category growth through strategic assortment, pricing, and promotional planning.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market insights.
• Excellent understanding of the FMCG retail environment and distribution channels.
• Proficiency in using category management software and tools.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Experience working within the Polokwane, Limpopo region is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and comprehensive employee benefits. This role provides the opportunity for professional development and career advancement within a leading FMCG company. Employees will benefit from a stimulating work environment, working on key categories that impact consumer choice. The chance to shape category strategies in Polokwane offers significant professional fulfillment and growth opportunities.