At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop and grow the Cereals category for the Quaker brand.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at PepsiCo, a leader in the food and beverage industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving sales and shaping category strategies.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Category Management with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Category Manager to join the DX Category Management team. The position will be responsible for implementing the multi-year strategy to develop the Cereals category and disproportionately grow the sales of the Quaker brand. The role will lead a small team to partner with the priority OT and Impulse customers, taking direct responsibility for managing the relationship with a ‘top four’ customer. This is a critical role that sits as part of the Grains LT to represent the voice of the channel and customer, where the incumbent is expected to be able to talk confidently about the latest consumer & shopper trends and keep the business up to date on the external landscape.
Responsibilities
- Category Development: develop comprehensive ‘category action plans’ that are aligned to the multi-year strategy and AOP objectives. This includes conducting market analysis, assessing competitive landscape and identifying growth opportunities.
- Assortment Planning: collaborate with the Perfect Store, Sales and Marketing teams to determine the optimal assortment for the category. Analyse sales data, consumer trends and customer feedback to make informed decisions.
- Customer Engagement: establish and maintain strong relationships with the priority OT and Impulse customers to ensure that PepsiCo is a credible category partner, particularly during the range review process.
- Activation & Planning: develop recommendations for the category to drive sales and maximize profitability. Collaborate with Marketing, Shopper Marketing and Sales to execute promotional and brand campaigns effectively (e.g. events).
- Performance Analysis: track and analyse the key performance metrics, such as sales, distribution and rate of sale. Identify areas for improvement and implement course-correction tactics to drive continuous growth.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: work closely with various internal and external teams to collaborate on NPD launches, campaigns, promotional activities and other initiatives.
- Market Trends Monitoring: stay informed about industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activities. Use insights to adapt category strategies and stay ahead of market changes.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 5 years of experience working within Category Management or related functions.
- Practical experience of category-first or ‘triple-win’ thinking is a must.
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Has strong business acumen (across Commercial, Finance & Operations).
- Demonstrates ‘end-to-end’ thinking & thought-leadership (i.e. future‑fit).
- Presents complex information & recommendations in a simplified, yet compelling manner.
- Clearly articulates the business impact (i.e. connects the insights, actions & implications).
- Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Proven track record of implementing successful strategies.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and other relevant applications.
Category Management Manager employer: PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH
At PepsiCo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. As a Category Management Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team while driving the growth of the Quaker brand in a collaborative environment that values innovation and personal development. With access to comprehensive training programs and a commitment to employee well-being, our team members thrive in a supportive atmosphere that encourages professional growth and celebrates success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Management Manager
✨Show Your Creative Side
In marketing communications, standing out is key. Get creative with your application! Consider designing a mini-campaign or pitch that highlights your skills and understanding of the brand. Tailor it for PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH and show them what you can bring to the table.
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We think you need these skills to ace Category Management Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft an Impactful Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Focus on your passion for marketing communications and how your previous experiences can benefit PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH. Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As you're diving into a marketing communications role, your writing ability is crucial. Include samples of your work, like blog posts, press releases, or social media campaigns in your application. This lets us see your style and how you engage with different audiences.
Tailor Your CV to Marketing:Your CV should highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences! Include specific tools or platforms you’ve used, like Google Analytics or social media management software. Mention any certifications or workshops related to marketing that you've completed – they can give you an edge!
Demonstrate Your Understanding of PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH:Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH’s marketing approach or any recent campaigns that caught your attention. This can reveal your enthusiasm for the role and your genuine interest in joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH
✨Showcase Your Creative Campaigns
Get ready to flaunt your portfolio! Include examples of previous marketing campaigns you've worked on, especially those that showcase your creativity and strategy. Recruiters at PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
✨Know Your Digital Tools Inside Out
If you’re heading into a marketing-communications role, make sure you're comfortable discussing key digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or Hootsuite. Expect some technical questions about how you've used these tools in the past, as they'll want to gauge your hands-on experience and how you analyse data to drive marketing decisions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
At PepsiCo Deutschland GmbH, they may throw some scenario-based questions your way, aimed at testing your problem-solving skills in real-life marketing situations. Think through potential challenges you’ve faced, how you navigated them, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcome.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Marketing
As you’re applying for a full-time position, show that you're not just looking for a job, but a career in marketing. Talk about the latest trends in marketing communications, your favourite campaigns, and why they inspire you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out and demonstrate that you’re committed to growing within the field.
