At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive category growth and build strong partnerships with top grocery accounts.
- Company: Join a leading FMCG company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, bonus, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and be part of an inclusive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment and lead strategic initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 € per year.
Be the driving force behind category growth with one of the top 4 Grocers – building strong partnerships with their account teams to unlock long-term, sustainable sales. You'll lead the charge on a joint strategic agenda, bringing brand plans to life in-store and online, and ensuring every activation delivers maximum commercial impact.
What you’ll be doing:
- Championing the category vision and growth drivers, engaging and influencing key stakeholders internally and externally.
- Collaborating closely to co-create and deliver customer strategies focused on long-term, sustainable growth.
- Building and leading strong, insight-driven category partnerships and identifying key opportunities within their categories and driving action to unlock them.
- Leading the range review process using a category-first approach to deliver impartial, insight-led recommendations that grow category value.
We’re looking for someone who brings:
- A strong track record in delivering growth and results in a branded FMCG environment.
- Proven commercial experience managing a top 4 grocery accounts or leading wholesaler in the UK.
- First-class negotiation, commercial, and presentation skills and can have impact and wants to be customer facing.
- Analytical, curious and can bring the insight to life.
- A collaborative, adaptable mindset with a passion for learning and developing.
- You could have current category experience or grocery NAM experience looking to get into a category role.
What do you need to be successful?
- A natural relationship-builder who can influence at all levels and communicate with clarity and impact.
- Someone who can turn complex data into compelling stories that drive action and inspire confidence.
- A fast mover who thrives in ambiguity, stays agile, and gets things done at pace.
- Calm under pressure, resilient through challenges, and focused on solutions.
- Curious and growth-minded – always looking for ways to do things better and raise the bar.
- A collaborative team player who brings energy, fresh thinking, and a spark of creativity to every conversation.
If you’re looking to join a forward-thinking company where you can truly own the customer relationship and be recognised for your impact—we want to hear from you. Apply now and take your career to the next level.
People are at the heart of everything we do. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process that means people can be their best authentic self.
We would love to reply to all applications, regrettably we are unable to do so due to the high volumes we receive, so if you do not hear back within 14 days unfortunately on this role it won’t be progressing. It is possible that the position could be in the process of closing, so chalk it up to bad timing. But, have no fear! There will be more opportunities. Follow us at Mackenzie Jones Recruitment so you don’t miss them.
Category Manager in Manchester employer: Mackenzie Jones
Join a leading FMCG company near Manchester, where you will be empowered to drive category growth and build impactful partnerships. With a strong focus on employee development, a collaborative work culture, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this role offers not just a job but a meaningful career path. Enjoy competitive benefits including a car allowance and bonus, all while being part of a forward-thinking team that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager in Manchester
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the FMCG space! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Show Off Your Insights
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, come armed with insights about their category. Share your thoughts on trends, opportunities, and how you can drive growth. This shows you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who’s ready to make an impact!
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for those interviews by practising your negotiation and presentation skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve influenced stakeholders or driven results. We want to see that you can communicate with clarity and confidence!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate candidates who are eager to join our team and make a difference in the FMCG world.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Category Manager. Highlight your experience in FMCG and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive growth and build partnerships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with our vision for category growth. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:We love data-driven insights! In your application, mention specific examples where you've turned complex data into actionable strategies. This will demonstrate your analytical mindset and ability to influence decisions.
Apply Through Our Website:To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you as soon as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mackenzie Jones
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Category Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key metrics related to category growth and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in the past. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to turn complex data into actionable insights.
✨Build Your Story
You’ll want to convey your experience in a compelling way. Think about how you can weave your past successes into a narrative that highlights your relationship-building skills and your impact on previous roles. Practice telling your story in a way that aligns with the company's vision for sustainable growth.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Given the importance of negotiation in this role, prepare for potential scenarios you might face. Think about how you would approach negotiations with key stakeholders or grocery accounts. Be ready to discuss your strategies and any successful outcomes from your previous experiences.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires a collaborative mindset, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight instances where your teamwork led to successful outcomes, and express your enthusiasm for co-creating customer strategies that drive long-term growth.
