At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive key retailer relationships and enhance in-store category execution.
- Company: Join a top FTSE10 company and leading UK TV advertiser.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract until April 2027 with career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on shopper-centric strategies.
- Why this job: Be part of a successful market innovator and influence major retail strategies.
- Qualifications: Strong commercial acumen and understanding of customer management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
City: Slough
About the role
You will work on the front line of strategic execution and at the centre of product delivery within a FTSE10 Company and one of the top 3 TV advertisers in the UK – with results that consistently outperform our competitors. Our brands are Number 1 or Number 2 brands in all their primary markets and we work with key retail players like Tesco, Boots, Asda and Sainsbury (amongst many others!). You will be able to say that you work for the most successful market innovator in the sector – with 30% of sales over three years coming from new products – and a company recognised for the strength of its commercial capabilities, offering numerous career opportunities. This is a fixed-term contract until April 2027.
Your responsibilities
- You will be responsible for influencing and driving our key retailer relationships to advance the in-store execution of the category.
- The role will involve internal cross functional working with the National Account and the trade marketing teams and ensuring clear strategic building blocks and tactics are being driven with the appropriate sense of urgency externally to result in store excellence and retailer performance.
- Reporting into Senior Category Development Manager.
- Develop and deliver effective 4P execution based on local Success Models and an understanding of customers, categories and consumers to maximise category performance.
- Liaise with Trade Marketing to ensure that NPD plans and wider categories are aligned and best practices are shared.
- Customise strategies and plans to align with and support the retailers strategy.
- Own and lead category storytelling, ensuring insight‑led, retailer‑ready narratives that land clearly with buying and merchandising teams.
- Effectively negotiate mutually beneficial solutions with various stakeholders and influence key decision‑makers to improve in‑store presence and execution of the category.
- Implement own initiatives from concept to in‑store execution.
- Embed shopper‑centric thinking into all recommendations, using missions, occasions and behaviours to shape plans.
- Lead space and layout optimisation across shelves to maximise availability and conversion.
- Drive the range review process.
- Understand and consider the impact of own decisions and independent action within other Reckitt units and wider business.
The experience we're looking for
- Strong commercial acumen with a clear understanding of the Customer Management Process.
- Able to translate category strategy into retailer‑relevant execution and financial impact, including sales, margin, ranging, space productivity and ROI.
Category Development Manager - JS (FTC) employer: Reckitt Benckiser LLC
As a Category Development Manager at our Slough location, you will join a dynamic and innovative team within a FTSE10 company renowned for its market leadership and commitment to employee growth. Our collaborative work culture fosters creativity and strategic thinking, while offering numerous career advancement opportunities in a thriving environment that values diversity and inclusion. With a focus on impactful product delivery and strong retailer partnerships, you'll be part of a successful organisation that prioritises both professional development and meaningful contributions to the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Development Manager - JS (FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and tailoring your answers to highlight your commercial acumen. Show how your experience aligns with the role of Category Development Manager and how you can drive retailer relationships.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Development Manager - JS (FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Development Manager role. Highlight your experience with strategic execution and product delivery, especially in retail environments. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
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 you can influence key retailer relationships. Be sure to mention any relevant successes you've had in similar positions.
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen:We’re looking for someone with strong commercial acumen, so make sure to include examples of how you've translated category strategies into successful retailer executions. Numbers speak volumes, so don’t shy away from sharing results!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reckitt Benckiser LLC
✨Know Your Brands
Before the interview, make sure you research the brands you'll be working with. Understand their market position, recent campaigns, and how they stack up against competitors. This will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested and have done your homework.
✨Master the 4P Execution
Familiarise yourself with the 4P framework (Product, Price, Place, Promotion) as it relates to category management. Be ready to discuss how you would apply this in real-world scenarios, especially in relation to the retailers mentioned in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations where you influenced key decision-makers. Highlight how you achieved mutually beneficial outcomes, as this role requires strong negotiation skills to improve in-store presence and execution.
✨Think Shopper-Centric
Be ready to discuss how you would embed shopper-centric thinking into your strategies. Use specific examples of how understanding consumer behaviour can shape effective plans and drive category performance.
