Category Manager
Describe your experience managing a product category in a retail or FMCG environment. What was your commercial impact (e.g., sales growth, margin improvement, range development)?
Give an example of a time you negotiated with a supplier to achieve a better commercial outcome. What was your approach, and what were the results?
How do you use data and insights to inform your category strategy? Share a specific example where analysis led you to make a successful change.
MacGregor Black are partnering with a FMCG Retail Business. Looking for a Category Manager.
We’re seeking an experienced and commercially minded Category Manager to lead and optimise product category strategies for a major player in the UK retail and wholesale sector. This is a high-impact role suited to individuals who are both analytically sharp and relationship-driven, capable of balancing commercial goals with customer-centric thinking.
Key Responsibilities:
* Category Ownership: Develop and deliver tailored category strategies that drive revenue growth, margin improvement, and market relevance.
* Range and Pricing Management: Define the optimal product assortment and pricing structure, underpinned by performance data, competitor insight, and consumer trends.
* Supplier Engagement: Build collaborative partnerships with key suppliers to create mutually beneficial business plans, negotiate promotional activity, and secure marketing support.
* Promotions & Campaign Planning: Design and execute seasonal and tactical promotional plans to increase footfall and sales, aligning with marketing and commercial objectives.
* Performance Monitoring: Analyse category data to evaluate initiatives, understand sales drivers, and make proactive adjustments to plans.
* Team Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams including marketing, supply chain, and commercial finance to ensure cohesive execution.
* Leadership Support: Provide guidance and support to more junior team members within the category function, ensuring efficient task delivery and professional growth.
What are we looking for?
* Strong background in retail, wholesale, or FMCG – preferably in a commercially-oriented role such as Buying, Merchandising, or Category Management.
* Proven ability to interpret market data and turn insights into actionable plans.
* Experienced in supplier-facing roles with a track record of delivering strong commercial outcomes.
* Able to take a big-picture view while managing tactical execution.
* Comfortable working cross-functionally and presenting to senior stakeholders.
* Experience supporting or mentoring colleagues in a fast-paced commercial setting.
Salary circa £50k
For more information, please contact Alice Redmond today.