Category Development Manager - FMCG

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a strategic and insight-driven Category Development Manager to join their team in Oxford . This role is critical in leveraging consumer insights and market data to develop winning category strategies that drive growth and profitability for both our client and their retail partners. You will be responsible for identifying opportunities, influencing retailer category management teams, and translating insights into actionable plans that enhance product placement, promotions, and overall category performance. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of key FMCG categories in a highly competitive market.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies based on consumer insights, market trends, and shopper behaviour.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of category performance, identifying key drivers of growth and opportunities for improvement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with retail partners, influencing their category management strategies.
• Develop compelling category presentations and business cases to support new product introductions and strategic initiatives.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and insights teams to ensure alignment and effective execution of category plans.
• Monitor competitor activity and best practices within the retail environment to inform category strategies.

Requirements

• Significant experience in Category Management or Category Development , preferably within the FMCG industry.
• Proven ability to translate consumer insights and shopper data into actionable category strategies.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis and presentation tools.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, with experience presenting to senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrable experience working collaboratively with retail partners.
• A Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with a substantial performance-related bonus.
• Company car and a comprehensive travel allowance.
• Private healthcare insurance and a robust pension scheme.
• Generous holiday allowance and opportunities for professional development.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation.