Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategy and performance of the Hot Beverages category, driving growth and supplier partnerships.
- Company: Join a leading food services organisation with a £1bn managed spend portfolio.
- Benefits: Up to £65,000 salary, 20% bonus, and excellent benefits including flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on a high-profile category worth £30m annually.
- Qualifications: Experience in category management and strong stakeholder influencing skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career development in a dynamic and strategic role.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: London (2–3 days per week in the office, remainder remote)
Salary: Up to £65,000 + 20% bonus + excellent benefits
We’re partnering with a leading food services organisation with over £1bn in managed spend across the UK. Supporting a broad portfolio of foodservice and hospitality clients, the business delivers expert procurement solutions that drive value, efficiency and commercial growth.
As part of continued growth, they are now looking for a Category Manager - Hot Beverages to take ownership of a high-profile category worth c. £30m in annual spend. This is a strategic, commercially focused role reporting into the Head of Category - Retail, with exposure to senior stakeholders and significant influence across the wider retail spend of c. £300m.
The Opportunity
This role offers full accountability for the strategic direction, commercial performance and supplier partnerships across the Hot Beverages category (tea, coffee and associated products). You’ll lead category strategy, supplier performance, income growth planning and team development, while ensuring best-in-class procurement delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and deliver the 3-year category strategy and income growth plan
- Manage day-to-day supplier and contract performance, including quarterly business reviews
- Maximise commercial value through strategic sourcing, rebate optimisation and margin delivery
- Drive compliance across approved product lists and supply chain frameworks
- Lead implementation of sourcing initiatives and ensure seamless distributor service levels
- Use market intelligence and data insights to create competitive advantage
- Provide leadership and development to a Category Buyer
- Influence stakeholders across the UK
Category Manager - Beverages employer: Talent Drive | B Corp™
Contact Detail:
Talent Drive | B Corp™ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Beverages
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in the hot beverages category!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your strategic thinking! Be ready to share examples of how you've driven commercial value in previous roles. We love hearing about your successes and how you can bring that to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. We’re excited to see what you can bring to the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Beverages
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing supplier relationships and driving commercial growth, especially in the beverages sector. 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 explain why you're passionate about hot beverages and how you can contribute to our strategic goals. Be sure to mention any relevant achievements that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Your Data Skills: Since this role involves using market intelligence and data insights, make sure to highlight any experience you have with data analysis or procurement strategies. We love candidates who can leverage data for competitive advantage!
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 receive your application and keep track of all the amazing talent we’re bringing on board!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Drive | B Corp™
✨Know Your Category Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the hot beverages market. Research current trends, key players, and challenges in the industry. This will not only show your passion but also demonstrate your strategic thinking when discussing category management.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since this role involves influencing senior stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've successfully managed relationships or driven change, as these will be crucial in showcasing your leadership skills.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you’ve used data insights to drive commercial value in previous roles. Prepare specific examples of how you’ve optimised supplier performance or maximised margins through strategic sourcing. Numbers speak volumes!
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership
As a Category Manager, you’ll need to lead and develop a team. Think about your leadership style and prepare to share experiences where you’ve motivated others or improved team performance. Highlighting your ability to nurture talent will set you apart.