FMCG Category Manager

Location: Newtownabbey
Salary: £40-45k
Job type: Supply Chain / Procurement
Industry: FMCG

Vickerstock are working in partnership with a growing wholesale and distribution business who are going from strength to strength and as a result of promotion, now have a Category Manager position available.

As the Category Manager you will be responsible for driving the performance and growth of assigned brands from a procurement and supply chain perspective. The role involves analysing market trends, managing supplier relationships, negotiating commercial agreements, and ensuring optimal product availability and inventory performance.

• Reports To: Procurement & Supply Chain Manager
• Hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm (40 hours per week)

Category Manager Key Responsibilities

• Manage product assortments, pricing, promotions, and inventory levels to maximise brand performance.
• Oversee range reviews, SKU creation, exceptional purchasing requirements, stock rationalisation, and inventory clearance activities.
• Develop and implement brand strategies that support business objectives, revenue growth, profitability, and market expansion.
• Maintain effective brand management processes and tools, ensuring all daily, weekly, and monthly activities are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Monitor brand performance using key performance indicators (KPIs), identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing corrective actions where required.
• Inventory & Supply Chain Management
• Lead and support the Inventory Planner to ensure appropriate stock availability, inventory levels, purchasing routines, and supply chain challenges are effectively managed.
• Work collaboratively to maintain efficient replenishment processes and minimise stock-related risks.
• Analyse market trends, sales data, supplier insights, and competitor activity to identify growth opportunities and potential gaps within the market.
• Support the development of pricing structures and promotional plans that enhance competitiveness and profitability.
• Use data and commercial insights to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and brand partners.
• Negotiate favourable commercial terms and collaborate with suppliers to enhance product offerings and overall brand performance.
• Work closely with marketing teams to develop effective product positioning, messaging, and communication strategies.
• Review customer feedback and implement improvements to strengthen customer satisfaction, loyalty, and overall experience.

Category Manager Criteria

• Three year's experience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment (wholesale, distribution, retail, food-service)
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Sound understanding of pricing strategies, margin management, and profitability optimisation.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, ERP systems, and reporting/analytics platforms.

To be considered for this position, apply with an updated CV and our supply chain specialist Michael Irwin will be in touch.

Skills:
category manager procurement supply chain fmcg

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