At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic category initiatives and drive growth for iconic beverage brands.
- Company: Join Carlsberg Britvic, a leading multi-beverage supplier in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical options, generous holidays, and a company bonus scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on continuous improvement and diverse perspectives.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in category leadership and strong team management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Hemel Hempstead
Job Length: Permanent
Working Hours: Monday - Friday
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 (including bank holidays)
- Access to a range of high street discounts
About the Role:
The Off Trade in Carlsberg Britvic deliver over £1.4 billion net revenue in 2025 and yet we know there is more growth for us to enjoy as we come together as a total drinks powerhouse. As a strategic leader within Carlsberg Britvic's category function, the Senior Category Manager works with the Head of Category to set the direction for long-term growth across key customers and channels.
This role owns the development of customer-category visions, leads cross-functional initiatives, and elevates Carlsberg Britvic's presence as a trusted advisor to retail partners. With an agile and commercially focused mindset, you'll deliver sustainable, insight-led strategies that drive category value, accelerate brand growth, and enhance our standing as a trusted partner to our customers.
This role is central to our planning and execution of commercial initiatives, therefore strong links will be required across the commercial functions, especially marketing, category strategy, insights, commercial operations and sales teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the channels/customer category agenda maximising today, and unlocking tomorrow
- Own the strategy and development of our annual operating category plans to drive execution against our category vision and range & merchandising blueprints, aligned with Carlsberg Britvic's commercial priorities.
- Establish and nurture strategic relationships with key customer stakeholders, positioning Carlsberg Britvic as a trusted category authority.
- Lead the execution of your customer/channel category roadmap through range reviews and identifying category initiatives to maximise point of purchase outcomes.
- Line manage and mentor Category Managers and Executives, supporting capability development and succession planning.
- Partner with Insights, Category Strategy, Sales, and Brand/Channel operations teams to ensure category thinking is embedded in brand planning and commercial execution.
- Manage the allocated category development budget against agreed customer data contracts and research projects.
Key Performance Measures:
- Delivery of volume and value growth targets, agreed through AOP
- Win market share through improved distribution, range and space gains
- Improved results in the Advantage Group Survey
- Improvement in perfect store measures
- Improved employee engagement scores and positive feedback
Knowledge, skills & experience required:
- Experience in category leadership roles within FMCG, including direct responsibility for customer accounts.
- Proven experience managing teams and leading strategic, cross-functional initiatives.
- Comfortable working with senior-level stakeholders in both retail and internal settings.
- Familiarity with market data, space planning tools (e.g., JDA) and customer insight platforms (loyalty data).
Qualifications:
- Degree-level education in Business, Marketing, Economics or equivalent; additional commercial or leadership qualifications (e.g. MBA) preferred.
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.
Carlsberg aims to create equal access to opportunity regardless of social identity, and we encourage everyone to apply regardless of gender, nationality, race, religion or any other characteristics protected by law.
Senior Category Manager in Hemel Hempstead employer: Carlsberg Britvic
Carlsberg Britvic is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and collaboration. Located in Hemel Hempstead, this hybrid role as a Senior Category Manager provides competitive salaries, extensive benefits including private medical options and generous holiday allowances, and the opportunity to lead strategic initiatives within a renowned multi-beverage supplier. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Carlsberg Britvic fosters an environment where every employee can thrive and contribute to meaningful business growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager in Hemel Hempstead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their market position and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about what you bring to the table and how you can help them achieve their objectives. A confident and concise introduction can set the tone for the rest of the conversation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager in Hemel Hempstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in category leadership and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills match what we're looking for. Be sure to mention your experience with strategic initiatives and cross-functional collaboration.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Senior Category Manager, you'll be leading teams and driving initiatives. Make sure to highlight your leadership experience and any successful projects you've managed. We love seeing examples of how you've mentored others or improved team performance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and we’re excited to see your application come through directly. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carlsberg Britvic
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the beverage category landscape. Understand current trends, key competitors, and consumer behaviours. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead strategic initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Category Manager, you'll be expected to lead teams and drive collaboration. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or cross-functional projects in the past. Highlight your ability to mentor others and foster a culture of excellence.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to make tough decisions or implement category strategies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Engage with Thought Leadership
Carlsberg Britvic values innovation and thought leadership. Be ready to discuss your views on hot topics like health and wellness or sustainability in the beverage industry. Show how you can position the company as a trusted authority in these areas.
