Category Manager - Snacks & Confectionery

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybride; ZAR 900 000 - 1 300 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Incentives

Medical aid & pension

Employee discounts

Professional development

Port Elizabeth role

Career progression

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Category Manager for the Snacks & Confectionery sector based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will lead assortment, pricing, promotions and supplier relations to drive growth, profitability and market share within the category.

The role requires 5+ years in category management or FMCG retail, strong analytical skills, and excellent negotiation abilities to optimise supplier contracts and store performance. A comprehensive benefits package is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in category management, retail buying, or similar role in FMCG.
• Proven track record of growing product categories.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret sales data and financials.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier management capabilities.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement category strategy including assortment planning, merchandising and promos.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor performance to identify opportunities and risks.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships for best sourcing and pricing.
• Optimize profitability by controlling costs, margins and inventory levels.
• Develop promotional plans to drive sales and foot traffic.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations and Store Management for category success.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new product introductions in snacks/confectionery.
• Present category performance reviews and strategic plans to senior management.

Connaissances

Category management

Retail buying

Analytics

Negotiation

Supplier management

Commercial acumen

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Business / Marketing / Retail Management

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the FMCG retail space, is looking for a dynamic and analytical Category Manager to lead their Snacks & Confectionery category. This role is responsible for the strategic management of the product assortment, pricing, promotions, and supplier relationships to maximize sales, profitability, and market share within the category. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of consumer behaviour, market trends, and retail operations, coupled with excellent commercial acumen and negotiation skills. This is an excellent opportunity to drive growth and shape the offering of a popular product segment. The position is based in the coastal city of Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , a key commercial center with significant retail presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the category strategy, including assortment planning, merchandising, and promotional activities.
• Analyze sales data, market trends, and competitor performance to identify growth opportunities and risks.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure optimal product sourcing and pricing.
• Optimize category profitability by managing costs, gross margins, and inventory levels.
• Develop and execute effective promotional plans and campaigns to drive sales and foot traffic.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and Store Management teams to ensure category success.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new product introductions, and emerging consumer preferences in the snacks and confectionery market.
• Manage category budgets and forecasts accurately.
• Present category performance reviews and strategic plans to senior management.
• Ensure the category offering meets customer needs and contributes to overall store objectives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in category management, retail buying, or a similar role within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and growing product categories.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data, market insights, and financial reports.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier management capabilities.
• Deep understanding of the snacks and confectionery market dynamics and consumer behaviour.
• Proficiency in retail management software and data analysis tools.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary of ZAR .
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous employee discounts on store products.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A stimulating work environment in Port Elizabeth , contributing to category success.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading retail organization.
• Paid time off and holiday allowances.
• Exposure to diverse product ranges and supplier interactions.
• Be instrumental in shaping the shopping experience for millions of consumers.