Category Manager UK&I

Category Manager UK&I

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Jack Link's Protein Snacks

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive growth in the protein snack category through data analysis and strategic recommendations.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team at Jack Link’s, a leader in branded protein snacks.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 27 days annual leave, and hybrid working options.
  • Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced industry while collaborating with a diverse international team.
  • Qualifications: 3-5 years experience in FMCG or F&B, strong analytical skills, and relationship-building abilities.
  • Other info: Be part of a vibrant culture with exciting team activities and a focus on well-being.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

At Link Snacks, we show up hungry, roll up our sleeves, plaid or otherwise, and dive straight into the hard work. We don’t hide from challenges; we hunt them down. We push harder, move faster, and take the kinds of big swings that built this business in the North Woods of Wisconsin four decades ago. We’re everyday people who deliver extraordinary results. Innovation, creativity, and urgency aren’t buzzwords, they’re expectations.

As part of the Link Snacks global enterprise, our team across EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) is focused on driving the growth of the real meat protein snack category with a strong emphasis on our brands: Jack Link’s (Beef Jerky, Biltong), Peperami, BiFi and Minuets. We operate through a network of regional offices and production sites across Europe in Germany, Netherlands and United Kingdom. Dominating this space across the world takes a team. A team that runs together, succeeds together, and celebrates together.

Make a difference in the world of branded protein snacking as Category Manager UK&I at Jack Link’s EMEA. Our spacious and modern HQ is located in the vibrant Amsterdam, and includes a highly international team, with more than 25 different nationalities. Our EMEA team is committed to continuing its impressive EMEA expansion, one bite at a time, and becoming the regional leader in branded protein snacks. This position is based in Richmond and you will be reporting to the Head of Category Management UK&I.

Your main responsibilities will include:

  • Using market reports, EPOS, panel and customer loyalty card data to gain an understanding of market performance, the competitive landscape to provide insight which will inform range assortment, distribution, merchandising and promotional recommendations.
  • Data crunching and internal KPI reporting to provide clear insights to business and inform the board on performance and key drivers of growth/decline of our brands and competitive set.
  • Analyze and support the development of forward actions to drive performance relating to range, space, promotions and POS.
  • Execute against the category vision and growth drivers and bringing this through in all internal and external presentations.
  • Develop a category relationship with our select key accounts and become the trusted advisor to land category growth for the customer and brand growth.
  • Support in building shopper and insight led selling stories for NPD and distribution and be able to present them in front of retailers.
  • Support in building priorities for sales and sales force (if applicable): perfect store, perfect shelf, displays, etc.

Qualifications:

  • UK Citizenship and/or a valid work permit is required. Please note that relocation assistance is not available for this position.
  • At least 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in FMCG or F&B, retail or manufacturing companies.
  • Previous work experience in the UK grocery market with knowledge of trade environment and ability to build strong customer relationships and deliver customer-centric solutions.
  • Data collection and analysis: Proficient experience with data tools (Nielsen/Circana, GfK, Customer loyalty platforms).
  • Knowledge/experience in merchandising/space planning is advantageous.
  • Be an analytical thinker, comfortable with large data sets.
  • Curious, action-oriented, enthusiastic and eager to learn with a ‘hands‑on mentality’ to get things done.
  • A storyteller, with a passion for converting data into actionable insights through clear and compelling stories.
  • A trusted relationship builder, with the ability to effectively collaborate and build rapport with cross‑functional teams and external partners.

Our benefits:

  • A competitive salary aligned with your experience and an excellent bonus scheme (above market).
  • In addition to public holidays, you will benefit from 27 days of paid annual leave to rest, recharge, and maintain a healthy work–life balance.
  • Hybrid working model, because we believe the future of work is based on a modern, adaptable, and agile workplace culture. 3 days from our office in Richmond and 2 home office days.
  • Group Income Protection, Private Medical Insurance & Group Life Insurance.
  • Pension Scheme, we support your long‑term financial well‑being through a company‑supported pension plan.
  • You will be part of a vibrant, dynamic, and international team!
  • Throughout the year, we organize a variety of team activities and initiatives designed to strengthen collaboration, encourage knowledge sharing, and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: Jack Link’s EMEA provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.

Category Manager UK&I employer: Jack Link's Protein Snacks

At Jack Link’s EMEA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and dynamic work culture in Richmond. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including 27 days of annual leave, and a hybrid working model, we prioritise employee well-being and growth. Our international team, representing over 25 nationalities, thrives on collaboration and innovation, making it an exciting place for passionate individuals to contribute to the future of branded protein snacking.
Jack Link's Protein Snacks

Contact Detail:

Jack Link's Protein Snacks Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Category Manager UK&I

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company inside out! Research Link Snacks, their brands, and their values. When you walk into that interview, show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who’s genuinely excited about their mission and ready to roll up your sleeves.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus when applying through our website.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the role of Category Manager. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your problem-solving skills.

✨Tip Number 4

Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for the team!

We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager UK&I

Market Analysis
Data Collection and Analysis
Customer Relationship Management
FMCG Knowledge
Retail Experience
Merchandising
Space Planning
Analytical Thinking
Data Tools Proficiency (Nielsen/Circana, GfK)
Storytelling
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Action-Oriented Mindset
Presentation Skills
Customer-Centric Solutions

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about being a Category Manager at Jack Link’s and contributing to our mission.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the job description. Highlight your relevant experience in FMCG or F&B, especially if you've worked in the UK grocery market. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs!

Be Data-Driven: Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, don’t shy away from showcasing your skills in this area. Mention specific tools you’ve used and how you’ve turned data into actionable insights. We appreciate a good storyteller who can back it up with numbers!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and ready to dive into the process!

How to prepare for a job interview at Jack Link's Protein Snacks

✨Know Your Numbers

As a Category Manager, you'll be expected to crunch data like a pro. Brush up on your knowledge of market reports, EPOS, and customer loyalty data. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in the past to drive growth or improve performance.

✨Show Your Storytelling Skills

You need to be a storyteller who can turn data into compelling insights. Prepare examples of how you've presented data-driven recommendations in previous roles. Think about how you can make your insights relatable and actionable for the team.

✨Build Rapport with Key Accounts

Relationship building is key in this role. Think of ways you've successfully developed relationships with clients or stakeholders in the past. Be prepared to share specific strategies that helped you become a trusted advisor.

✨Embrace the Company Culture

Link Snacks values innovation, creativity, and a hands-on mentality. Familiarise yourself with their core values and think about how your personal work ethic aligns with theirs. Be ready to share examples of how you've embodied these traits in your previous roles.

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