Category Manager - Non-Food FMCG

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses based on performance

Medical aid

Provident Fund

Career progression

Cross-functional exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Category Manager to lead the Non-Food category within a dynamic FMCG environment in Klerksdorp, North West. You will shape category strategies, optimize assortments, and drive profitability while collaborating with marketing, sales, and retail partners.

The role requires strong analytical skills, stakeholder influence, and a track record in category management. A relevant degree and 4–6 years of experience are expected; relocation to Klerksdorp is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 4–6 years in category management or a similar commercial role, FMCG Non-Food preferred.
• Proven track record of growing a product category.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills, with MS Excel and BI tools.
• Excellent understanding of retail operations and consumer behavior.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at various levels.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Must reside in or relocate to Klerksdorp, North West.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies to achieve sales, market share, and profitability targets for the Non-Food category.
• Conduct market and consumer analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and threats within the category.
• Manage the product lifecycle, including assortment optimization, new product introductions, and discontinuation of underperforming items.
• Develop and implement pricing and promotional strategies in collaboration with marketing and sales teams.
• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers and retail partners.
• Analyze sales data, market share reports, and shopper insights to inform category decisions.
• Collaborate with merchandising and visual display teams to ensure optimal product placement in stores.
• Monitor competitor activities and market dynamics to maintain a competitive edge.
• Develop business cases for new initiatives and present recommendations to senior management.
• Ensure alignment of category strategies with overall company goals and objectives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Negotiation

Relationship management

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Independent work

Stakeholder influence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Postgraduate qualification advantageous

Tools

MS Excel

Business intelligence tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic force in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a strategic and commercially astute Category Manager to lead their Non-Food category. This exciting role is based in Klerksdorp, North West . The Category Manager will be responsible for driving category growth, developing strategic category plans, optimizing product assortment, and maximizing profitability within the non-food segment. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of category management principles, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to influence stakeholders across the business and with retail partners. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of a key category within a thriving FMCG business and contribute to its success in the North West region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies to achieve sales, market share, and profitability targets for the Non-Food category.
• Conduct comprehensive market and consumer analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and threats within the category.
• Manage the product lifecycle, including assortment optimization, new product introductions, and discontinuation of underperforming items.
• Develop and implement effective pricing and promotional strategies in collaboration with the marketing and sales teams.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and retail partners.
• Analyze sales data, market share reports, and shopper insights to inform category decisions.
• Collaborate with merchandising and visual display teams to ensure optimal product placement and presentation in stores.
• Monitor competitor activities and market dynamics to maintain a competitive edge.
• Develop business cases for new initiatives and present recommendations to senior management.
• Ensure alignment of category strategies with overall company goals and objectives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A relevant postgraduate qualification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in category management or a similar commercial role, preferably within the FMCG Non-Food sector .
• Proven track record of successfully managing and growing a product category.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills, with proficiency in MS Excel and business intelligence tools.
• Excellent understanding of retail operations and consumer behavior.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at various levels.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Klerksdorp, North West .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, along with performance-related bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a Provident Fund.
• This role provides excellent opportunities for career progression within a reputable FMCG company.
• You will gain valuable experience in category management and contribute to significant business outcomes.
• The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Additional benefits include professional development support and potential for cross-functional exposure.
• Embrace this opportunity to excel in category management in Klerksdorp .