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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage product lifecycles and analyse market trends in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a renowned consumer brand with a strong growth record based in Suffolk.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options after probation and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: This role offers a chance to grow your career with a successful product team.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in product development or buying, preferably in FMCG or similar.
- Other info: Commutable from various locations including Colchester and Ipswich.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you working in category management or insight within the retail or FMCG sector? Perhaps you’ve met a glass ceiling in your current role and are keen for the next step up? Maybe you’re not so passionate about your current product range and keen to work with a renowned and successful consumer brand? Or perhaps you’re fed up with the commute to the big city, and want something a bit closer to home? If any of the above rings true, then it could be worth reading about the opportunity we have with a fantastic consumer organisation based in Suffolk.
They are in search of a highly motivated and skilled Category/Product Manager to join their growing and successful product team. This is an exciting opportunity for the post-holder to challenge themselves within a fast-paced, dynamic and recognised organisation that has seen significant growth year on year. Ideally, candidates will be coming from either a product development or buying role at a consumer products/ FMCG company or similar industry.
Key Responsibilities- Continuously monitor market trends and manage lifecycle of new and existing products within designated categories
- Analysis of assigned product ranges in-line with consumer and market research
- Product sourcing within assigned categories
- Management of costing process for potential new products
- Ensuring all products meet relevant local market legislation
- Oversee creation of product artwork collateral
- Assist management with completion of annual Commercial Plan
- 3+ years in a product development or buying role
- Experience in a consumer product/ FMCG company or similar industry
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Packages
- Experience in a supervisory, team lead or management position
- Willingness to travel, nationally and internationally
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an exciting Product Team who are really looking to grow their brands, and in turn, as a business. The position will allow for a hybrid structure, but only after the passing of a probation period, afterwards, it can be arranged for 2 days working from home a week. Due to the location of the Suffolk based office, this role is commutable via Colchester, Ipswich, Norwich, Stowmarket, Bury St Edmunds & Sudbury.
Category Buying Manager employer: Zero Surplus
Contact Detail:
Zero Surplus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Buying Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the FMCG sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights into the company or role you're interested in.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the specific consumer brand you'll be working with. Understanding their product range, market position, and recent developments can help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with market trends and product lifecycle management. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed products in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your willingness to travel and adapt to a hybrid work structure. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully managed remote work or travelled for business.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Buying Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in category management or product development, especially within the retail or FMCG sector. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements relevant to the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for the consumer products industry. Mention why you are interested in this particular company and how you can contribute to their growth.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your proficiency with Microsoft Office packages and any supervisory or management experience. Highlight your ability to analyse market trends and manage product lifecycles, as these are key responsibilities of the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a managerial position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zero Surplus
✨Showcase Your Category Management Experience
Make sure to highlight your experience in category management or insight within the retail or FMCG sector. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed product lifecycles and responded to market trends.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Since the role involves analysing product ranges, come equipped with examples of how you've used data to inform decisions. Discuss any tools or methodologies you’ve employed to analyse market research and consumer behaviour.
✨Prepare for Questions on Product Sourcing
Expect questions about your experience with product sourcing and managing the costing process. Be ready to explain your approach to ensuring products meet local market legislation and how you’ve navigated challenges in this area.
✨Express Your Passion for Consumer Brands
This role is with a renowned consumer brand, so convey your enthusiasm for working with such products. Share why you’re interested in this particular company and how your values align with theirs, especially regarding growth and innovation.
