b Overview /b p In this role, you will drive category growth for Kao’s UK Consumer Care portfolio by turning data insights into compelling category narratives for retailers. You’ll partner with trade, marketing, and retailers to shape category strategy, optimize ranges and store placements, and support NPD and GTM initiatives. You will work across cross-functional teams to translate insights into actionable plans that boost Kao’s presence and profitability. A strong emphasis on data-driven storytelling, retailer partnerships, and shaping in-store winning concepts makes this an impactful, growth-focused role. /p b Pay / Benefits /b ul li flexible working /li li health and wellbeing offers /li li pension schemes /li li insurance options /li li learning and development opportunities /li li competitive salaries /li /ul b Responsibilities /b ul li Develop and implement differentiated category visions for allocated categories across retail channels to influence retailer decisions /li li Identify category and shopper trends and translate them into actionable insights for Kao and customers /li li Build relationships with trade stakeholders and lead regular meetings to position Kao as a key partner /li li Recommend optimal store placements, distribution, and ranging for current and new products /li li Determine optimal merchandising flow and assortment strategy /li li Extract, filter, analyse and present market data to the UK team and customers using various tools /li li Create impactful trade presentations to convert visions into actionable customer plans /li li Monitor competitor activity to understand drivers of performance across channels /li li Set up trackers to monitor NPD activity and compile competitor overviews including NPD strategies /li li Share category trends and updates internally and with customers through appropriate channels /li li Support internal innovation stagegate processes prior to NPD launches and GTM brand/sales planning /li li Contribute to ad hoc analyses addressing internal business questions and initiatives /li /ul b Key requirements /b ul li BSc/BA hons degree or equivalent /li li 2–3 years in Category Management within FMCG (or related FMCG commercial roles with exposure to Category Management) /li li Beauty background preferred /li li Proficient with Excel and PowerPoint /li li Proficient with Circana/Nielsen/Kantar self-serve tools /li li Independent user of SIP, Dunnhumby, Boots Gateway /li li Experience in anticipating retailer and competitor challenges and defending with data-driven arguments /li li Experience influencing retailer ranging decisions to maximise SKU distribution and in-store space decisions /li li Experience driving profitable opportunities with customers and collaborating with marketing teams /li li Experience leading retailer thinking for allocated categories and channel strategies /li /ul ul li Relationship-building and stakeholder management /li li Excellent presentation and communication skills /li li Analytical mindset with data storytelling ability /li li Excel /li li PowerPoint /li li Circana/Nielsen/Kantar self-serve tools /li /ul
Category Manager, FTC employer: Goldwell
At Kao, we pride ourselves on being an ethical employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our flexible working options, competitive salaries, and extensive learning and development opportunities, all set against the backdrop of our vibrant UK office. Join us to be part of a passionate team that values innovation and respects diverse perspectives, making a meaningful impact in the beauty and personal care industry.
