At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Cereals category strategy and drive sales growth 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 cross-functional collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping category strategies and engaging with top customers.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Category Management, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ 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 in Reading employer: Pepsico
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 talented 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 location offers a vibrant atmosphere where your contributions are recognised and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Management Manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Understand their products, especially in the Cereals category, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be able to clearly articulate your achievements and how they relate to the role of Category Management Manager. Use specific examples that highlight your analytical skills and ability to drive sales growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to the success of the Quaker brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Management Manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Category Management Manager. Highlight your experience in category management and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the Cereals category and how your skills can help grow the Quaker brand. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical skills, don’t shy away from showcasing your proficiency in data analysis tools. Give examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. We’re all about making informed choices here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pepsico
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Cereals category and the Quaker brand. Familiarise yourself with current market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activities. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used data analysis to drive category growth in the past. Bring along any relevant metrics or case studies that highlight your ability to assess competitive landscapes and identify growth opportunities.
✨Build Rapport with Your Interviewers
Since this role involves customer engagement, practice building relationships during the interview. Be personable, listen actively, and engage with your interviewers. This will showcase your interpersonal skills and ability to connect with stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like managing a relationship with a top customer or developing a category action plan. Think through your past experiences and be ready to articulate your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
