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.
- Other info: This role is not focused on retail procurement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment where your voice matters.
- 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 Slough 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 Slough
✨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 more 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 to discuss case studies or examples where you've successfully influenced retailer relationships or contributed to product development. This will showcase your ability to drive results and your strategic thinking skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s values and mission thoroughly. Be ready to articulate how your personal values align with theirs, as this role is with a values-driven brand that prioritises cultural fit alongside skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Category Manager in Slough
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 ability. Discuss how your insights have previously influenced retailer relationships or product development, and express your enthusiasm for joining a values-driven brand.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Clearly outline your analytical skills and experience with P&L financials. Mention specific examples where you've used data to drive business strategy or influence key decisions.
Showcase Your Curiosity:Demonstrate your curious mindset by discussing how you stay updated on market trends in the snacking space. Mention any innovative ideas you have that could benefit the brand and its partnerships with retailers.
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. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've used data analysis to influence decisions or strategies in previous roles.
✨Understand the FMCG Landscape
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the current trends in the FMCG sector, particularly in snacking. Research the brand's competitors and be ready to discuss how you can help elevate their position in the market.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires working closely with Sales, Marketing, and NPD teams. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated across departments and how that led to positive outcomes.
✨Be Ready to Influence
You'll need to establish yourself as a trusted partner with major UK retailers. Prepare to share your strategies for influencing retailer relationships and how you've successfully navigated similar situations in the past.
