Category Manager

Category Manager

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
FMCG Selection

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead category management for key European retail accounts and deliver data-driven insights.
  • Company: Fast-growing food manufacturer with strong retailer relationships.
  • Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, 10% bonus, and clear development pathway.
  • Why this job: Step up to a Category Manager role in a high-growth food category.
  • Qualifications: 2-4 years in category or insights, strong analytical and communication skills.
  • Other info: Supportive team environment with opportunities for career progression.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

This is an excellent step-up opportunity for a Category Executive or Junior Category Manager ready to take ownership of key retail accounts and develop into a fully‑fledged Category Manager role. Our client is a well‑established and fast‑growing food manufacturer supplying major UK and European grocery retailers. Following continued investment and category growth, they are looking to strengthen their Category & Insights team with a commercially minded, insight‑led Category Manager.

You’ll work closely with commercial and customer teams, providing data‑driven recommendations that influence ranging, distribution and growth strategies across a high‑performing food category.

The Role

Reporting into the Head of Category, you’ll support and lead category initiatives across key European grocery accounts. This role offers strong development and visibility, making it ideal for someone looking to progress into a more strategic category position.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Supporting and leading category management across key European retail accounts
  • Delivering insight‑led recommendations to support listings, distribution and promotional activity
  • Building strong relationships with retail buyers and internal commercial teams
  • Analysing market, shopper and EPOS data to identify trends and growth opportunities
  • Supporting range reviews, category strategy and shelf optimisation projects
  • Creating compelling category presentations and rationale for new product launches
  • Responding to ad hoc customer insight requests with clear, actionable outputs

About You

This role would suit someone currently working as a Category Executive, Category Analyst or Junior Category Manager looking for their next step into a Category Manager position.

  • 2–4 years’ experience within category, insights or shopper marketing in FMCG
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to turn data into clear recommendations
  • Experience working with retailers or supporting retail accounts
  • Confident communicator with strong presentation skills
  • Commercial awareness and curiosity around shopper behaviour
  • Advanced Excel and experience with category data sources (e.g. Nielsen, Circana, Kantar or retailer data)
  • A proactive, collaborative mindset and desire to develop

Why Apply?

  • Genuine step‑up Category Manager opportunity
  • High‑growth food category with strong retailer relationships
  • Supportive team with clear development pathway
  • Hybrid working (3 days office)
  • 10% bonus

To apply or find out more, please contact: Aidan Goodall FMCG Selection. All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Category Manager employer: FMCG Selection

Join a dynamic and fast-growing food manufacturer in Bedfordshire, where you will have the opportunity to take ownership of key retail accounts as a Category Manager. With a supportive team culture, clear pathways for professional development, and the flexibility of hybrid working, this role offers a unique chance to thrive in a high-performing environment while contributing to the growth of a leading FMCG brand.
FMCG Selection

Contact Detail:

FMCG Selection Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Category Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential employers on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their products and market position so you can showcase your insights and how you can add value as a Category Manager.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your presentation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to communicate data-driven recommendations clearly. Create mock presentations to get comfortable with your delivery.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to show your interest in joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager

Category Management
Data Analysis
Market Analysis
Insight Generation
Relationship Building
Presentation Skills
Commercial Awareness
Excel
Retail Account Management
Trend Identification
Promotional Strategy
Shelf Optimisation
Collaborative Mindset
Proactive Approach

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in category management, insights, and any relevant data analysis skills. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in category management and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical skills, make sure to mention any tools or methodologies you’ve used to analyse market data. We love seeing how you can turn data into actionable insights that drive growth!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at FMCG Selection

✨Know Your Data

As a Category Manager, you'll be expected to analyse market and shopper data. Brush up on your analytical skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in the past. Bring examples of insights you've derived from data and how they influenced category strategies.

✨Build Relationships

This role involves working closely with retail buyers and internal teams. Prepare to talk about your experience in building strong relationships. Think of specific instances where your communication skills helped you achieve a goal or resolve a challenge.

✨Showcase Your Presentation Skills

You'll need to create compelling presentations for new product launches. Practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently. Consider preparing a mini-presentation on a relevant topic to demonstrate your skills during the interview.

✨Stay Curious About Shopper Behaviour

Demonstrate your commercial awareness by discussing current trends in shopper behaviour. Research recent developments in the FMCG sector and be prepared to share your thoughts on how these trends could impact category management strategies.

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