Category Manager

Folkestone, Kent
Reed

Exciting opportunity for an experienced Category Manager

40000 to 55000 + Benefits

Monday – Friday (40 hours per week)

Potential for hybrid working after probation period

Responsibilities

• Category Strategy: Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies aligned with overall business objectives. Identify market trends, competitive landscape, and customer needs to drive growth and profitability.• Assortment Planning: Analyse market data, consumer insights, and sales trends to curate and optimize product assortments. Identify opportunities for new product introductions and collaborate with suppliers to ensure a well-balanced and attractive assortment.• Pricing and Promotion: Define pricing strategies based on market dynamics, product positioning, and competitive analysis. Develop and implement promotional activities to maximize category performance and meet revenue targets.• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. Negotiate favourable terms, including pricing, discounts, and promotional support. Continuously evaluate supplier performance and seek opportunities for cost savings and improved service levels.• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams, including sales, marketing, operations, and supply chain, to align category strategies with overall business goals. Provide guidance and support to ensure effective execution of category plans.• Market Analysis: Conduct ongoing market research and analysis to stay updated on industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitive activities. Utilise insights to identify emerging opportunities and make informed recommendations.• Performance Monitoring: Monitor category performance using relevant metrics, such as sales, margins, market share, and customer satisfaction. Develop and implement action plans to address performance gaps and drive continuous improvement.• Forecasting and Budgeting: Collaborate with finance and demand planning teams to develop accurate sales forecasts and budgets for the assigned categories. Track performance against targets and recommend corrective actions when necessary.• Cross-Category Synergies: Identify opportunities for cross-category collaborations and promotional activities to maximize customer engagement, sales, and profitability.

The Individual

Experience, Knowledge and Personal Characteristics

• Proven working experience as purchasing manager, agent or leader in a significant business with formal supply chain management procedures. A CIPS qualification is desirable.• Any other procurement or leadership qualifications would be a bonus; however previous experience is essential• Minimum five years’ experience in procurement.• Strong leadership and entrepreneurial skills are a must have