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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and execute category strategy for Grocery Commodities, managing supplier relationships and performance.
- Company: Join Foodbuy, a top UK food procurement organisation focused on sustainable solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, bonuses, free meals, training, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food procurement in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment with growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Proven expertise in food procurement, strong negotiation skills, and advanced Excel proficiency preferred.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover role with potential for career development within the Food Category Team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Category Manager – Chertsey
We\’re Hiring: Category Manager – Grocery Commodities
Hybrid – UK | Competitive Salary | Great Benefits + Career Development
Join one of the UK\’s leading food procurement organisations!
At Foodbuy, we manage over 2.2bn in food and associated spend, bringing together clients across the foodservice and hospitality sectors to deliver smart, sustainable procurement solutions. We\’re proud to be part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, and we\’re on a mission to transform procurement for good-with a strong focus on Net Zero, Social Value, and innovation.
The Role
We\’re looking for a Category Manager manage our Grocery Commodities Category. This role plays an integral part in the development of the category and ultimately the overall success of Foodbuy.
This role is maternity cover and a great opportunity to develop within our Food Category Team, giving you the opportunity to shape, develop and deliver a short, medium & long-term category strategy. With support from the Added Value & Dry Store team, you will direct all procurement and supplier management strategies across the Grocery Commodities space including our canned goods framework. The candidate will navigate and analyse the commodities market, ensuring competitiveness and security for all our Foodbuy Group clients, incorporating our group scale with an objective to add value and ignite sales and purchase income growth in a complex market.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute category strategy for Impulse, aligned to long-term growth and sustainability goals.
- Manage supplier and contract relationships, including QBRs and performance reviews.
- Own category planning, P&L oversight, and supplier hierarchy.
- Coach and guide a direct report (Category Buyer).
- Ensure all product ranges and supply chains are effectively implemented post-sourcing.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams and clients to exceed expectations.
- Use market data and insight tools (e.g., Mintec) to support decision-making and maintain competitive edge.
About You
- Proven commercial expertise and strong negotiation skills.
- Experience in food or FMCG procurement/category management.
- Able to translate data into clear actions and outcomes-advanced Excel a plus.
- Confident project manager with the ability to juggle multiple initiatives.
- Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Proactive, collaborative, and results-driven.
What\’s In It for You?
We reward great work and support your growth every step of the way. Benefits include:
Private medical insurance
Bonus scheme
Pension contributions
Free on-site meals
Training and development via MyLearning & Career Pathways
Access to a digital GP
Perks & discounts (groceries, cinema, travel & more!)
Wellbeing support including exercise and mindfulness classes
Ready to step up and lead in a fast-moving, purpose-led organisation?
Apply now and become a key part of a business shaping the future of food procurement.
Contact Detail:
Foodbuy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Chertsey
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in grocery commodities and food procurement. Understanding market dynamics will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food and FMCG sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the Category Manager position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or executed category strategies in the past. This will showcase your experience and align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Foodbuy and Compass Group's sustainability initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their mission and values will allow you to tailor your conversation and show that you're a great fit for their culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Chertsey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Category Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as commercial expertise and negotiation skills, to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in food or FMCG procurement/category management. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or executed category strategies in the past.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Since the role requires the ability to translate data into clear actions, mention any experience you have with market data analysis or tools like Excel. Highlight projects where your analytical skills led to successful outcomes.
Personalise Your Application: Make your application stand out by personalising your cover letter. Address it to the hiring manager if possible, and express your enthusiasm for the role and the company's mission to transform procurement for good.
How to prepare for a job interview at Foodbuy
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Category Manager, especially in grocery commodities. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as managing supplier relationships and executing category strategies.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since strong negotiation skills are crucial for this role, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated contracts or improved supplier relationships. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
Highlight your ability to translate market data into actionable insights. Prepare to discuss how you've used tools like Excel or market insight tools to inform your decisions in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
This role requires strong interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've effectively collaborated with internal teams or clients. Be prepared to discuss how you manage stakeholder expectations and foster positive relationships.
