Category Manager

Job Description

A leading player in the chain store industry is expanding its commercial team and invites qualified professionals to join as a category manager for dry and canned foods. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape the strategy and performance of a high-impact food category across the retail network.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Strategy & Planning:

• Develop and execute category strategies to drive sales and market share.
• Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activities.
• Define product assortment (which products to stock/discontinue).

Supplier & Vendor Management:

• Negotiate with suppliers for better pricing, promotions, and terms.
• Evaluate supplier performance and identify new sourcing opportunities.
• Ensure product availability while minimizing excess stock.

Pricing & Promotions:

• Set competitive pricing strategies based on market analysis.
• Plan promotional campaigns, discounts, and bundling strategies.
• Monitor price elasticity and adjust strategies accordingly.

Inventory & Supply Chain Coordination:

• Optimize stock levels to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Work with logistics and procurement teams to ensure smooth supply chain operations.
• Reduce waste

Sales & Performance Analysis:

• Track category performance using KPIs (sales volume, profit margins, sell-through rates).
• Use data analytics (Excel, Power BI, retail ERP systems) to identify growth opportunities.
• Adjust strategies based on real-time sales data.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work with marketing for advertising and digital campaigns.
• Coordinate with sales teams to align promotions and incentives.
• Liaise with finance for budgeting and P&L management.

Requirement:

• At least a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional experience as a category manager or similar role (Preferably in the chain store industry, dry and canned foods category).
• Excellent negotiation and Supplier Relationship Management skills.
• Familiarity with Power BI and SAP.
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.