At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales and innovation in Fresh & Chilled categories while building strong supplier relationships.
- Company: Join Iceland Foods, a leading innovator in the UK food retail industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, store discounts, and subsidised onsite amenities.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying or category management within food retail is essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
When people think of Iceland Foods, they think of frozen food. And they're right to. We've been leading the way in frozen for over 50 years.
But there's so much more to our story!
Today, we're one of the UK's most innovative food retailers, with ambitious growth plans and award-winning ranges across Fresh, Chilled and Grocery.
From category-defining product launches to industry‑leading value and quality, we're constantly evolving to meet the needs of our customers.
And that's where you come in….
We're looking for a Category Buying Manager (Fresh & Chilled).
This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially driven and ambitious buying professional to join our fast‑paced Commercial team at our Head Office in Deeside.
You will take ownership of key Fresh and Chilled categories, driving performance through exceptional supplier partnerships, category strategy and innovative product development.
With significant autonomy and visibility across the business, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping ranges that delight customers, differentiate Iceland from competitors and deliver sustainable growth.
- What You’ll Be Doing
- Developing and executing category strategies that drive sales, profit and market share.
- Building strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and key internal stakeholders.
- Identifying emerging consumer trends and translating them into winning product and category propositions.
- Negotiating commercial terms to deliver outstanding value for both customers and the business.
- Managing supplier performance, reviewing opportunities and introducing new sources of supply where appropriate.
- Driving innovation across the category, ensuring Iceland stays ahead of the competition.
- Ensuring continuity of supply, product availability and operational excellence.
- Acting as a role model within the team, coaching and influencing colleagues through expertise and leadership.
- What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in a buying or category management role within food retail.
- Strong commercial acumen with a track record of delivering sales growth, margin improvement and category success.
- Experience managing Fresh and/or Chilled categories in a fast‑moving retail environment.
- Exceptional negotiation, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
- A passion for product, innovation and customer insight.
- The ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast‑paced and constantly changing environment.
- Experience creating clear points of difference that drive customer loyalty and business performance.
Why Iceland?
We're one of the UK's fastest growing and most exciting retailers, with ambitious plans for the future and a culture that empowers people to make things happen.
At Iceland, you’ll have the freedom to challenge convention, the support to develop your career and the opportunity to make a visible impact from day one.
We work at pace, think differently and back our people to succeed.
We expect a lot because we’re passionate about what we do.
In return, you’ll be trusted, supported and given every opportunity to grow your career with a business that genuinely cares about its colleagues, customers and communities.
Ready to make your mark?
Join us and help shape the future of Fresh & Chilled at one of the UK's most innovative food retailers. That's the Iceland difference.
- Alongside This We Can Offer You
- A very competitive salary with an excellent benefits package
- 25 days holiday, plus 8 days bank holiday
- 15% store discount, 30% club individual restaurant discount
- Free parking
• Highly subsidised restaurant onsite with our own Michelin Star Chef!
- Subsidised Costa onsite
- Discounted gym membership
- Charity fundraising events
- Educational sponsorship
- Enhanced maternity/paternity leave
- Long service awards
- Reward & recognition
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Category Buying Manager - Chilled & Fresh employer: Iceland Foods
Iceland offers an exceptional work environment for Refrigeration Engineers, providing autonomy and flexibility in your role while ensuring a supportive team atmosphere. With over 27 years of experience, we prioritise professional development through ongoing training and clear career progression paths, all within a secure in-house position. Enjoy competitive benefits, including a company van, generous holiday allowance, and exclusive discounts, making Iceland a rewarding place to build your career in Leicester or Coventry.
