Remote FMCG Category Manager - Strategic Sourcing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Remote setup allowance

Career development

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Remote FMCG Category Manager to drive category performance from anywhere in South Africa. You will develop category strategies, optimize sourcing, and ensure profitability on a national scale.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in category management or strategic sourcing in FMCG, with strong negotiation, analytics, and ERP proficiency.

A Bachelor's degree is required; an MBA is desirable, and you should be adept at remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in category management, strategic sourcing or procurement in FMCG.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and financial acumen.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies to drive sales, profitability, and market share.
• Conduct market and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities within assigned categories.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and secure optimal pricing and terms.
• Oversee procurement processes for timely and cost-effective product acquisitions.
• Analyze sales data and inventory to optimize assortment and stock management.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and operations to align category strategies with business objectives.
• Develop and manage category budgets and monitor financial targets.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities within supply chain and procurement.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Financial acumen

ERP proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Marketing/Supply Chain

MBA desirable

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading powerhouse in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is actively seeking a strategic and experienced Remote FMCG Category Manager . This role is entirely remote, allowing you to drive category performance and strategic sourcing initiatives from your chosen location. You will be responsible for managing a specific category portfolio, developing category strategies, and optimizing sourcing and procurement processes to ensure competitiveness and profitability. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the FMCG market, excellent analytical skills, and a proven ability to negotiate favourable terms with suppliers. This is a pivotal opportunity to shape category success on a national level while enjoying the flexibility and autonomy of a remote position.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies to drive sales, profitability, and market share.
• Conduct in-depth market and competitor analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and threats within assigned categories.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and secure optimal pricing and terms for goods and services.
• Oversee the procurement process, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition of products.
• Analyse sales data, customer insights, and inventory levels to optimise product assortment and stock management.
• Collaborate with internal teams (sales, marketing, operations) to align category strategies with overall business objectives.
• Develop and manage category budgets, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements within the supply chain and procurement processes.
• Stay abreast of new product innovations and industry best practices relevant to the category.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• An MBA is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in category management, strategic sourcing, or procurement, with a strong focus on the FMCG sector.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful category strategies that drive profitable growth.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and financial acumen.
• Strong understanding of supply chain dynamics and procurement best practices.
• Proficiency in using data analysis tools and ERP systems.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, effective in a remote setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote environment.
• Located within South Africa, with a good understanding of the Western Cape retail landscape, potentially connected to the Stellenbosch region's commercial activities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-driven bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement planning.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Full remote work setup allowance and support.
• Access to cutting-edge market intelligence and analytical tools.