
Category Manager (FMCG industry)
- Johannesburg, Gauteng
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Market and Trend Analysis: Thoroughly analyze sales, industry trends and consumer behavior to inform product category strategies.
- Strategic Development: Formulate and implement long-term strategies for product category growth and sustainability.
- Product Lifecycle Management: Develop and execute exit strategies for underperforming products, ensuring focus on successful and profitable items.
- Demand Forecasting: Accurately predict product demand to maintain efficient inventory levels, avoiding overstock and stock-outs.
- Pricing Strategy: Work closely with the sales teams to set competitive pricing, balancing profitability and market competitiveness.
- Promotional Activities: Coordinate with marketing and sales teams to devise effective promotional campaigns for the product category.
- Category Expansion: Conduct research and / or collaborate with buyers and sales teams to identify opportunities for category expansion and diversification.
- Sales Analysis: Review sales performance data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and areas of growth.
- Budget Development and Management: Work under the guidance of function heads to develop and manage the budget for the category, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
- Supplier Contract Negotiation: Negotiate terms and contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous agreements.
- Product Positioning: Determine optimal product positioning within the market to maximize visibility and appeal to target consumers.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with various internal teams, such as R&D, supply chain and finance, to align category strategy with overall business objectives.
- Market Research: Conduct and interpret market research to stay ahead of industry changes and competitor strategies.
- Consumer Insights: Leverage consumer insights to refine product offerings and tailor strategies to customer preferences.
- Proven experience as a category manager or similar role in FMCG or related industry.
- Strong understanding of marketing, sales, and category management principles.
- High proficiency in data analysis, market research, and forecasting techniques.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Strategic thinker with a robust analytical mindset.
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or related fields.
- Strong understanding of brand management and brand strategy is critical.
- Proficiency with Oracle ERP, Power BI and MS Office essential.