Your newpany
My client is a market-leading UK distributor of business supplies and services, operating across multiple channels with a strong logistics network and a portfolio of well-established brands. With amitment to innovation and operational excellence, they deliver essential goods to workplaces nationwide and are known for their dynamic, forward-thinking culture.
Your new role
As Category Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping and expanding the own-label product portfolio. This is a strategic and hands-on position where you’ll lead category development, manage the full product lifecycle, and collaborate across departments to bring innovative,mercially successful products to market.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Developing and executing strategic category plans to drive growth.
2. Leading product development from concept to launch across multiple own-label brands.
3. Conducting market andpetitor analysis to identify new opportunities.
4. Collaborating with marketing to buildpelling brand propositions.
5. Managing supplier relationships and negotiating costs, timelines, and quality.
6. Ensuringpliance with safety, legal, and brand standards.
7. Approving samples, packaging, and production sign-offs.
8. Working cross-functionally with Procurement, Product Management, and Marketing teams.
What you'll need to succeed
9. Proven experience in category management, product development, or buying—ideally within own/private label.
10. Strongmercial acumen and a creative eye for product innovation.
11. Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.
12. Knowledge of sourcing, manufacturing, andpliance standards.
13. Exceptional organisational and project management abilities.
14. Willingness to travel nationally and internationally (approx. 5%).
15. Expertise in category and product range development.
16. Strong presentation and stakeholder influencing skills.
17. Understanding of supply chain dynamics and responsible procurement.
What you'll get in return
18. The opportunity to shape a high-growth product category within a leading organisation.
19. A collaborative, fast-paced environment where innovation is encouraged.
20. Career development opportunities and exposure to a wide network of industry professionals.
21. Flexible working options available.