Category Manager (Hair care)
£45,000-£50,000, Brighton outskirts, 37.5 hours Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:30pm, Permanent, 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, Pension, EAP with discounts, Opportunity to travel to events and conferences, Staff discounts, Samples, Social events
The Role
We are seeking a skilled Category Manager to take ownership of the Hair Care product category for a well-established business within the professional beauty supply sector. The Category Manager will focus on maximising sales, profitability, and customer engagement, while driving forward innovative product strategies. Reporting to the Commercial Manager and managing a small category support team, the Category Manager will work cross-functionally with marketing, ecommerce, finance, and replenishment to deliver growth and align with business objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Developing category strategies and long-term plans to achieve growth targets
2. Analysing sales data, competitor activity, and consumer behaviour to identify opportunities
3. Selecting an optimal product mix and introducing new lines to the range
4. Managing shelf space and visual merchandising plans for maximum impact
5. Setting pricing strategies and implementing promotional campaigns
6. Building strong supplier relationships and negotiating commercial terms
7. Monitoring supplier performance against agreements
8. Providing monthly category performance updates to stakeholders
9. Conducting store visits and liaising with suppliers to maintain service standards
10. Managing stock availability, clearance, and excess to optimise trading position
Requirements
We would expect the successful Category Manager to have previous buying or merchandising experience, with knowledge of the hair or beauty industry being necessary. You will have a proven ability to manage and develop a team, excellent negotiation skills, strong commercial awareness, and a flexible, proactive approach. This role could suit someone who has worked as a Buying Manager, Merchandising Manager, or Product Category Lead.
Company Information
This is an exciting opportunity to join a long-standing, growing organisation that supplies professional products nationwide. The company operates across multiple sales channels and offers a collaborative and supportive working environment, with a strong focus on quality, customer service, and continuous improvement.
Package
11. Salary £45,000-£50,000
12. Brighton outskirts (BN1 8AP) - own transport required or bus route access (not suitable for train commuting)
13. 5 hours, Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm
14. Permanent role
15. 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
16. Pension
17. Employee Assistance Programme with discounts
18. Opportunity to travel to events and conferences
19. Staff discounts on products
20. Product samples
21. Social events
Travail Employment Group is operating as an Employment Agency. Once you click to apply for this job your application will be immediately received by Travail Employment Group. If your application is successful a consultant will be in contact with you within the next 7 days. If you do not hear within 7 days you have unfortunately not been successful on this occasion.