Category Manager

Promasidor

Marketing & Communications

JOB OBJECTIVE

The Category Manager is responsible for managing and developing strategies based on in-depth understanding of market trends. The role drives category performance through data-driven analysis, market insights, and effective stakeholder / cross functional collaboration. They will develop category plans that align with company objectives and deliver profitable growth.

The Category Manager will also serve as a key partner to sales, manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure right product quality, optimal product placement, pricing, promotions, and distribution strategies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Category Strategy Development:

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies that support the overall business objectives.
• Conduct thorough market analysis and competitor benchmarking to identify growth opportunities.
• Lead long-term planning, innovation pipelines, and category expansion initiatives.
Work with 3rd party agencies, media and digital team to develop compelling campaigns and content that drive category growth.

Market and Consumer Insights:

• Analyze consumer behavior, market trends, and category performance using data from internal and external sources (e.g. Nielsen, Kantar, IPSOS).
• Leverage insights to identify opportunities for new product development, range optimization, and market penetration.
• Monitor competitor activities and adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive advantage.

Product Development and Innovation:

• Identify opportunities for innovation and new product launches, collaborate with product development.
• Ensure the category portfolio meets customer needs, market demand, and aligns with company objectives.
• Oversee product lifecycle management, including product rationalization, renovation, and discontinuation where necessary.

Pricing, Promotion, and Merchandising:

• Drive pricing strategies that optimize profitability while maintaining market competitiveness.
• Partner with sales teams to develop promotional plans that drive consumer engagement and retail execution.
• Collaborate with merchandising teams to ensure proper in-store execution, product placement, and shelving strategies.

Sales and Financial Management:

• Work closely with the sales team to ensure the successful execution of category initiatives across key accounts and retail partners.
• Track and report on category performance, adjusting strategies as needed to meet financial targets.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Act as the central point of contact for all matters related to the assigned category.
• Work with supply chain & manufacturing teams to ensure product availability and efficient inventory management.

Leadership and Team Development:

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and coaching to brand managers and Assistant brand managers.
• Promote a collaborative and performance-driven culture within the team and across departments.
Drive best practices in category management and share knowledge.

Financial scope:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. A master’s degree (MBA) is preferred.
• CIM Level 6 or higher or other relevant certifications
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in marketing / brand management, product management, or a related role, with a focus on FMCG.
• Proven experience in developing and executing category strategies that drive profitable growth.
Strong experience in working with market data and analytics tools

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Strong commercial acumen with an ability to interpret data and develop actionable insights.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint).

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Self-motivated
• Analytical
Articulate – verbal and written

<