At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape product categories and drive profit while learning from experienced mentors.
- Company: Join a major UK business with a focus on growth and development.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts at Tesco and Booker, plus a structured development programme.
- Other info: Hybrid working model for flexibility and collaboration.
- Why this job: Accelerate your career in a dynamic role with real impact on the business.
- Qualifications: Passion for product management and eagerness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
About the role
Reporting to: Category Manager
Based: Wellingborough / Watford
Job Summary
Play a key role in shaping our product categories, delighting customers, and driving cash profit - all while building standout skills in a major UK business. We’re excited to offer a 10-month fixed-term opportunity to join our Catering team as a Category Manager – Designate. This role is perfect for someone who wants to accelerate their career, gain hands-on experience in a large, well-established organisation, and develop the kind of commercial skills that open doors.
As a Category Manager – Designate, you’ll be stepping into a role designed around your growth. You’ll work closely with an experienced mentor, be supported by a structured development programme, and get real exposure to how a major product function operates. You’ll build confidence, learn how to manage a product portfolio, and contribute to decisions that genuinely impact the business.
Whether you’re looking to step up, switch direction, or gain experience in a competitive field, this role gives you the platform to do it – with the backing of a respected brand and a team invested in your development. This is a hybrid role, giving you the flexibility to balance focused home working with valuable in-person collaboration.
What is in it for you
- A Booker colleague card with 10% off purchases at Booker and double discount events up to three times a year.
- After 3 months service, a Tesco colleague discount card with 10% increasing to 15% off most purchases at Tesco for a 4 day period after every four-weekly pay day, ie. thirteen times a year.
- In addition to 10% off at Tesco Cafe and 20% off all food.
Category Manager Designate - Catering (up To 10-month Ftc) employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Join a dynamic team at a leading UK business where your role as a Category Manager – Designate will not only shape product categories but also enhance your professional growth. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from mentorship, structured training, and the opportunity to make impactful decisions in a supportive work culture. Enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements and exclusive discounts that reflect our commitment to valuing our employees.
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager Designate - Catering (up To 10-month Ftc)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. We recommend practising common interview questions and having your own questions ready. Show them you’re genuinely interested in the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. We love a good follow-up!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you ace the process. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager Designate - Catering (up To 10-month Ftc)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Category Manager role. Highlight any relevant experience in product management or catering, and don’t forget to showcase your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re excited about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Passion for Catering:We want to see your enthusiasm for the catering industry! Mention any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your interest and knowledge in this field. It’ll help you stand out from the crowd.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Know Your Categories
Before the interview, dive deep into the product categories relevant to the role. Understand current trends in catering and how they impact customer choices. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a product portfolio or contributed to business decisions. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills in the new role, as this is crucial for a Category Manager – Designate.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, mentorship opportunities, and the structured development programme mentioned in the job description. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Embrace the Hybrid Model
Since this is a hybrid role, be prepared to discuss how you plan to balance remote work with in-person collaboration. Highlight any previous experience you have with hybrid working and how it has helped you stay productive and engaged.
