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- Tasks: Become a category expert, driving strategies for cheese and butter sales.
- Company: Join Lactalis UK, a leader in dairy products with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with 2 days from home and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact by shaping category strategies and building relationships with retailers.
- Qualifications: Experience in Category Management and strong analytical skills are essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with top brands and contribute to exciting NPD initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Redhill with working from home 2 days per week
Summary: Contribute to the delivery of Lactalis UK’s financial and strategic objectives by facilitating category arguments to support commercial success in the cheese & butter categories. Unlock category value and growth opportunities with strategic retailers through the translation of market data & insight into actionable plans.
Reporting Line: Senior Category Manager
Main tasks and responsibilities:
- DELIVERING OUR BUSINESS OBJECTIVES
- Recognised as a ‘category expert’, owning insight, category strategy and supporting budget delivery.
- Contributing to the delivery of financial and strategic objectives (volume, net sales & contribution) within the monthly Integrated Business Planning (IBP) process.
- Developing listing and defence rationales for Lactalis ranges, across all subcategories for our customers, working in conjunction with the commercial and marketing teams.
- Supporting NPD initiatives based on category and customer centric thinking, representing both the commercial team and customer perspective on NPD projects.
- Contributing and leading the communication and implementations of our Cheese category strategy, based upon current shopper, customer and category insight.
- Leading Category and Range review projects for selected retailers, across all subcategories, developing optimum range, merchandising and promotional recommendations.
- Developing long-term and trusted category relationships with strategic customers.
Key performance indicators:
- Supporting delivery of Volume, Net Sales and Contribution targets for a subcategory
- Delivery of distribution targets on NPD launches
- Delivery of the Cheese 3 years Category Strategy in strategic customers
- Improved customer perceptions of our capability and credibility as a trusted partner and category growth leader.
- Delivery of the internal IBP process category demands.
Essential Skills/Experience/Knowledge:
- Track record in Category Management in the UK or a similarly developed market
- Category development knowledge
- Excellent Analytical skills
- Shopper, category, customer understanding
- Proficient use of Excel and PowerPoint
- Attention to detail
- Good verbal, written communication & presentation skills
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively at all levels in an organisation
Desirable Skills/Experience/Knowledge:
- Working experience in leading Category relationship with retailers.
- Proficient user of relevant Category Manager tools – Kantar WPO, IRI, Dunhumby etc.
The job description is intended to include the broad range of responsibilities and requirements of the post. It is neither exhaustive nor exclusive but while some variations will be expected, these will be at an appropriate level for the role.
If you are interested in applying for this position please forward your CV along with your salary expectations, right to work information and notice period to: careers@lactalis.co.uk
Please be advised that we can only accept applications from candidates who have the right to work in the UK.
Category Executive/ Manager employer: Lactalis Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Lactalis Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Executive/ Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the cheese and butter categories. Understanding current market dynamics will help you speak confidently about category strategies during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the category management field, especially those who have experience with retailers. Building relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used data to drive category growth in previous roles. Being able to articulate your analytical skills will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Lactalis UK and their current category strategies. Tailoring your conversation to align with their objectives will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Executive/ Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in category management, particularly in the cheese and butter sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to develop category strategies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Lactalis UK’s objectives and how your skills align with their needs. Mention your experience with market data analysis and your ability to build relationships with retailers.
Highlight Key Skills: Emphasise your proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint, as well as your attention to detail and communication skills. These are essential for the role and should be clearly stated in both your CV and cover letter.
Follow Application Instructions: When submitting your application, ensure you include all requested information such as salary expectations, right to work details, and notice period. This shows your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lactalis Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Category Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in category management, especially within the cheese and butter sectors. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've contributed to financial and strategic objectives in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Since excellent analytical skills are essential for this role, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive decisions. Familiarise yourself with tools like Kantar WPO or IRI, as discussing your proficiency can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to develop category strategies and manage relationships with retailers. Think of scenarios where you've successfully implemented category insights into actionable plans and be ready to share these stories.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong verbal and written communication skills are crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex category strategies or presenting data insights. This will help demonstrate your capability as a trusted partner.
