At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive product strategies for Belowground & Utilities, enhancing market share and profitability.
- Company: Join Polypipe Building Products, part of the innovative Genuit Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a company car, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a team committed to sustainability and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Lead impactful product innovation in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Strategic thinker with experience in B2B/B2C marketing and product innovation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Polypipe Building Products, part of the Genuit Group, designs and manufactures plumbing, drainage, ventilation and water management solutions used in homes and buildings across the UK. Our people and values sit at the centre of everything we do. We combine long‑term stability with a culture built on teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement. We encourage fresh ideas, invest in development and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone feels like they belong.
Role Overview
We’re looking for a Category Manager to drive the Belowground & Utilities product categories. You’ll be responsible for developing and delivering category strategies that grow market share, increase profitability and differentiate Polypipe through compelling, customer‑led innovation. You’ll take full ownership of category performance, influence sales and marketing strategies, and work cross‑functionally to bring new products to market. You’ll also oversee the Sustainable Heating category, managing and developing the Product Manager within this area.
Key Responsibilities
- Own the Belowground & Utilities category strategy, driving revenue and profitability by product placement in both B2B and B2C markets.
- Develop and deliver category plans aligned to overall business strategy.
- Lead product innovation and manage the full product lifecycle from concept to withdrawal.
- Analyse market data, customer insight, regulation and competitor activity to inform decision‑making.
- Champion the Voice of the Customer to create differentiated, market‑leading value propositions.
- Drive revenue and profitability through effective product positioning across B2B and B2C markets.
- Act as the key link between Sales, Marketing, Channel Marketing, Operations and Technical teams.
- Support sales growth through training materials, technical documentation and product content.
- Work with Marketing to deliver clear go‑to‑market strategies and consistent messaging across channels.
- Ensure effective merchandising and promotion within the distribution network.
- Own sales performance reporting, demand forecasting and inventory management for the category.
Skills & Requirements
- Strategic thinker with senior‑level experience and P&L ownership.
- Proven track record of delivering market‑leading product innovation.
- Strong background in B2B and/or B2C marketing.
- Experience or knowledge of the built environment is preferred but not essential for this role.
- Highly analytical with a data‑driven mindset.
Benefits
- 25 Days of Annual leave.
- Company Car.
- Contributory pension scheme – matched up to 8%.
- Life assurance.
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity pay.
- Save as you earn Sharesave Scheme.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Free flu vouchers.
- Various health & wellbeing initiatives including complimentary occupational health on‑site physiotherapy and counselling services.
- Staff discount on all Genuit Group products.
- Free on‑site parking.
Here at the Genuit Group we recognise and develop the contribution our people make to the Group’s success and are committed to attracting talent from the widest pool. We have a role to play in making the built environment more sustainable, building a low‑carbon business ourselves as well as delivering sustainable solutions at scale.
Category Manager - Belowground & Utilities employer: Genuit Group
At Genuit Group, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work environment where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront. As an Industrial Engineer, you will not only have the opportunity to lead impactful projects but also benefit from our commitment to employee development through continuous training and a culture that champions collaboration and improvement. Located in a vibrant area, our team enjoys a supportive atmosphere that values each individual's contribution towards creating a more sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Belowground & Utilities
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect 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 skills can drive their Belowground & Utilities category forward.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions in past roles. This will resonate well with companies looking for strategic thinkers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Belowground & Utilities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in B2B and B2C marketing, product innovation, and any relevant data analysis skills. We want to see how you can drive revenue and profitability!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Belowground & Utilities category and how your strategic thinking aligns with our goals at Polypipe. Let us know how you can contribute to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver market-leading product innovation. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible to show your impact!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing talent out there. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Genuit Group
✨Know Your Categories Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Belowground & Utilities categories. Understand the current market trends, key competitors, and customer needs. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking and show that you're ready to take ownership of the category strategy.
✨Showcase Your Innovation Skills
Prepare examples of how you've driven product innovation in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you led the full product lifecycle, from concept to market launch. Highlighting your ability to create compelling, customer-led value propositions will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with Sales, Marketing, and Technical teams, be prepared to discuss your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Share examples of how you've successfully influenced strategies across departments to drive revenue and profitability.
✨Be Data-Driven
As a Category Manager, you'll need to analyse market data and customer insights. Bring along any relevant data analysis you've done in the past and be ready to discuss how it informed your decision-making. Showing a strong analytical mindset will resonate well with the interviewers.
