At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead category strategy for Travel and Convenience, driving growth through data insights.
- Company: Global food manufacturer with a focus on sustainability and employee wellbeing.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, career development, and supportive wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a positive impact on people and the planet.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in Category Management.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Our client is a leading food manufacturer operating as part of a global group with over €3 billion in annual turnover, spanning more than 30 countries with 14,000 employees and 44 manufacturing sites worldwide.
They produce well-loved brands enjoyed across the UK and have built an award-winning culture focused on authenticity, collaboration and sustainability.
Their commitment to 'People & Planet' goals drives meaningful action on packaging reduction, environmental responsibility and community wellbeing, creating a workplace where employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work.
Position Overview
As Category Manager, you'll serve as the lead category advisor for Travel, Forecourts and Convenience channels, building strategic partnerships and driving commercial growth through insight-led decision making.
This role sits at the heart of the business, translating complex market data into actionable strategies that shape category vision across the impulse sector.
You'll work closely with retailers, internal teams and industry partners to deliver category growth whilst supporting independent retailers and cross-functional projects that directly impact market performance.
Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships across Travel, Forecourts and Convenience channels
- Set and deliver category priorities for Travel and Forecourt sectors
- Create and regularly update comprehensive Convenience category guides
- Translate customer insights into actionable recommendations for internal teams
- Support Out of Home and Route to Market teams with data-driven insights
- Define and embed the Category Vision for the Impulse sector
- Design and deliver training programmes on insight tools for internal teams
- Manage the relationship with Circana, ensuring data accuracy and optimal usage
- Analyse and interpret Lumina CTP data, sharing findings across the business
- Provide category support to independent retailers through tailored guidance
- Collaborate with cross-functional project teams on strategic initiatives
- Attend industry conferences and webinars to maintain market knowledge
Requirements
- Degree level education
- Proven experience in Category Management within FMCG or retail sectors
- Strong data interpretation, manipulation and analysis capabilities
- Hands-on experience with market data software, specifically Nielsen and Circana
- Solid understanding of Convenience and Travel or High Street retail environments advantageous
- Demonstrated commercial acumen with ability to translate insights into business outcomes
- Advanced Excel skills with ability to manage multiple data sources
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple customers and projects simultaneously
- Strong presentation skills with ability to communicate complex data clearly
- Experience influencing cross-functional teams and external stakeholders
- Strategic thinking with ability to see the bigger commercial picture
- Proactive self-starter who takes initiative and drives projects forward
- Excellent relationship building skills across all levels
- Hybrid working arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance
- Supportive wellbeing initiatives focused on physical and mental health
- Community physical activity programmes
- Career development opportunities within a global organisation
You'll join a friendly, welcoming team within an award-winning culture that values authenticity and collaboration.
The environment actively supports your wellbeing whilst offering genuine opportunities to grow your career within an international network committed to making a positive impact on people and the planet.
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Category Manager - Travel & Convenience Retail in Slough employer: Vertical Advantage
Vertical Advantage is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of Greater London. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have ample opportunities for growth while working on impactful supply chain projects. The competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, combined with the flexibility of a hybrid role, make this an attractive opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - Travel & Convenience Retail in Slough
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Category Manager - Travel & Convenience Retail at Vertical Advantage!
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Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Category Manager - Travel & Convenience Retail role at Vertical Advantage!
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - Travel & Convenience Retail in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Vertical Advantage. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vertical Advantage
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Vertical Advantage. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
