At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform data into insights and influence major UK retailers.
- Company: Join a high-growth, values-led FMCG brand in the snacking space.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with 3 days in the office and 2 days WFH, plus a competitive salary and bonus.
- Other info: This role offers autonomy and visibility, perfect for those looking to shape business direction.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment where your voice is valued.
- Qualifications: Strong FMCG experience, high-level Excel skills, and a strategic mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join a successful Brand and Own Label business supplying customers across multiple channels, including Retail, Discount and Foodservice. This is a high-profile role within the Commercial team, responsible for shaping category strategy and turning complex consumer, shopper and market data into clear commercial opportunities.
Senior Category Manager
Brand & Own Label food
South West HQ | WFO 2-3 days
£negotiable + Bonus
Role
Reporting to the Commercial Lead, you will lead the category strategy and insight agenda across the business. You will analyse category data to identify emerging trends, category opportunities and areas for growth. Translating these findings into persuasive recommendations, you will support customer ranging, pricing, promotional, merchandising and omni-channel activation plans. You will create compelling category stories through customer-facing presentations, build influential relationships with UK retail customers and manage external data and insight partners.
You
- Experience leading category strategy and insight across UK retail customers
- Advanced knowledge of Nielsen, Kantar and other consumer, shopper and market data
- The ability to convert data into clear, actionable commercial recommendations
- Strong knowledge of ranging, pricing, promotions and merchandising
- Experience creating and presenting compelling category stories to customers
- A track record of influencing both internal stakeholders and external customers
- Experience leading cross-functional projects across Commercial, Sales and Marketing teams
- Previous people management or coaching experience is preferred
- Strong commercial awareness, including budget and financial management
- The confidence to operate with autonomy in a visible and influential position
This opportunity would suit an ambitious and commercially minded category professional who enjoys combining detailed analysis with customer engagement and wants to make a genuine impact within a growing Brand and Own Label business.
Senior Category Manager in London employer: Henson Recruitment
Join a dynamic FMCG group that prioritises innovation and collaboration, offering a vibrant work culture where your contributions directly impact business growth. With a focus on employee development, you will have access to tailored training programmes and career advancement opportunities, all while working in the picturesque South West region known for its supportive community and quality of life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Category Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the FMCG sector, especially those who have experience with snacking brands. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in category management.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific data tools and software commonly used in FMCG category management. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these tools during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare case studies or examples of how you've successfully influenced retailer relationships in the past. Highlighting your storytelling skills and ability to present data-driven insights will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the brand's values and recent initiatives in the snacking space. Showing that you align with their mission and understand their market position will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your FMCG category experience, particularly with UK grocery retailers. Emphasise your high-level Excel skills and any relevant data analysis projects you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, showcase your storytelling abilities. Explain how your insights have previously shaped business strategies and influenced retailer relationships. Make it clear why you're excited about this specific role in the snacking space.
Highlight Relevant Skills:When detailing your experience, focus on your analytical skills and critical thinking. Mention any specific examples where you've partnered on NPD projects or influenced others within a team setting.
Showcase Your Curiosity:Demonstrate your curious mindset by discussing how you stay updated on market trends and consumer behaviour. This will show that you are proactive and engaged, qualities that are essential for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Henson Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
As a Senior Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to transform raw data into actionable insights. Prepare examples of how you've used data in previous roles to influence decisions and drive results, especially in the FMCG sector.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires working closely with Sales, Marketing, and NPD teams. Be ready to discuss your experience in cross-functional projects and how you’ve successfully linked shopper behaviour to business strategy in past roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Storytelling Ability
Being a skilled storyteller is crucial for this position. Practice presenting your ideas clearly and engagingly, as you'll need to influence top-tier retailers and communicate effectively across departments.
✨Understand the Brand's Values
Since this is a values-driven brand, take the time to research their mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their growth in the snacking space.
