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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive category growth by building relationships and executing strategic plans with key retailers.
- Company: Join Carlsberg Britvic, a leading drinks company with iconic brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical options, generous holidays, and 24/7 GP services.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of the beverage industry.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in category management or customer marketing; strong analytical and communication skills.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to your growth and success.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: The primary location for this role is Hemel Hempstead; however, due to the nature of the position, we are open to applications from across the UK. Occasional travel to the head office will be required for team meetings.
Job Length: Permanent
Working Hours: 37.5
Competitive Salary with extensive benefits:
- Monthly product allowance – alcoholic & non-alcoholic options available
- Private Medical options
- Life Assurance
- Company bonus scheme
- Access to 24/7 GP services
- Enhanced pension contribution
- Generous holiday (inc bank holidays)
- Access to a range of high street discounts
About The Role
Following the acquisition of Britvic by Carlsberg in January 2025, Carlsberg Britvic has emerged as one of the world's largest drinks companies, boasting an impressive portfolio of brands enjoyed by millions across the UK throughout their day. With the Off Trade division set to deliver over ÂŁ1.4 billion in net revenue in 2025, we're poised for even greater growth as a total drinks powerhouse.
As Category Manager, you’ll be an integral part of our commercial growth engine, translating strategy into execution and serving as the commercial lynchpin between customer‑specific insight, brand opportunities, and in‑outlet activation. You’ll develop collaborative relationships with retailers and internal partners to deliver robust category plans, identify growth levers, and shape customer agendas that elevate our brands while enhancing our position as a trusted partner. Working primarily with convenience customers across wholesale symbols and independents markets, you’ll focus on 'maximizing today and unlocking tomorrow' with key accounts such as Booker, Bestway, and Unitas while influencing our field execution plans.
Role Responsibilities
- Establish strategic relationships with key customer stakeholders, positioning Carlsberg Britvic as a trusted category authority and co‑creating impactful solutions that enhance category performance
- Translate consumer, shopper, and market trends into channel and customer strategies that drive category growth and competitive advantage
- Lead the execution of category roadmaps through range reviews and initiatives that maximize point‑of‑purchase outcomes across distribution, range, space, and rate of sale
- Develop compelling category selling stories and customer immersion experiences designed to influence implementation of category solutions and strategies
- Lead strategic agendas on critical topics including health and wellness, sustainability, deposit return schemes (DRS), and high fat salt sugar (HFSS) legislation
- Partner with Insights, Category Strategy, Sales, and Brand/Channel operations teams to embed category thinking in brand planning and commercial execution
- Set, track, and evaluate performance against space, range, and distribution targets aligned to our range and merchandising blueprints
- Mentor and develop team members while championing category capabilities across functions
- Manage allocated category development budgets effectively against agreed customer data contracts and research projects
Experience and Key Attributes
- 3-5 years' experience in category, customer marketing, or commercial roles within FMCG or similar sectors, with a proven track record of working directly with customers
- Strong category management expertise with excellent command of space and range principles and analytical skills to synthesize insights from syndicated and shopper data
- Outstanding communication and influencing abilities, with credibility in front of customers and the capacity to build and maintain strategic relationships
- Commercial acumen with understanding of key financial levers and how to optimize them through customer planning and negotiation
- Degree (or equivalent) in Business, Marketing, Economics, or related field
- Experience with space planning tools (e.g., JDA) and customer insight platforms such as dunnhumby and PowerBI is desirable
- Adaptability and composure in a fast‑paced environment, with openness to evolving business priorities and routes to market
Our commitment to diversity equity & inclusion
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences - including those of different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, abilities, religions, and socioeconomic statuses. We actively seek to create a safe and inclusive environment for all of our colleagues, where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and inclusive practices are embedded in everything we do. We are happy to support accessibility needs, to ensure a fair and equitable experience for all candidates, so please do let us know if you require any adjustments during the recruitment process.
Application Process
We read applications continuously, and vacancies may be filled anytime, so please apply as early as possible. We look forward to receiving your application.
Category Manager - Wholesale / Symbols & Independents employer: Carlsberg Britvic
Contact Detail:
Carlsberg Britvic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Wholesale / Symbols & Independents
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on social media. The more people know you’re looking for a Category Manager role, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Britvic and understanding their brands inside out. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in the wholesale and independent sectors. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your value as a Category Manager. Think about your past successes and how they can translate into growth for Britvic. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Britvic. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Wholesale / Symbols & Independents
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in category management and how it aligns with our goals at Carlsberg Britvic. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use specific examples of how you've driven category growth or improved relationships with customers. This will help us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who fits well with our culture, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what makes you passionate about this role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands quickly. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carlsberg Britvic
✨Know Your Brands
Before the interview, dive deep into Carlsberg Britvic's portfolio. Familiarise yourself with their key brands like J2O and Carlsberg Danish Pilsner. Being able to discuss these brands and their market positioning will show your genuine interest and understanding of the company.
✨Master the Metrics
As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key performance indicators relevant to category management, such as space, range, and distribution metrics. Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to drive growth in previous roles.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your experience in establishing strategic relationships with customers. Think of examples where you’ve successfully collaborated with stakeholders to enhance category performance. This will showcase your ability to be a trusted partner, which is crucial for this role.
✨Stay Current on Trends
The role involves translating consumer and market trends into actionable strategies. Stay updated on current trends in health, wellness, and sustainability within the FMCG sector. Bring insights to the table during your interview to demonstrate your proactive approach to category management.
