Category Manager, Beverages - Richards Bay

About the Role

Our client, a leading retail group with a significant presence in the FMCG sector , is seeking a strategic and analytical Category Manager to oversee their beverage portfolio in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is essential for driving sales, profitability, and market share within the beverage category. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of consumer trends, supplier management, and retail dynamics. You will be responsible for developing category strategies, assortment planning, pricing, and promotional activities to maximize category performance. This position requires a commercially astute individual with excellent negotiation skills and a passion for the consumer goods market. This is an exciting opportunity to influence product offerings and drive commercial success in a key coastal region for our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for the beverage category to achieve sales, margin, and market share targets.
• Analyze category performance, market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activities to identify opportunities and risks.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, pricing, and promotional terms to optimize category profitability.
• Develop and implement effective assortment plans, ensuring a compelling product mix that meets consumer demand.
• Plan and execute promotional campaigns and pricing strategies to drive footfall and sales.
• Collaborate with marketing, operations, and store teams to ensure successful category execution and alignment.
• Monitor inventory levels and work with supply chain to ensure product availability.
• Present category strategies and performance reviews to senior management.
• Stay abreast of new product developments and innovations within the beverage industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Retail Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in category management or a similar commercial role within the FMCG retail environment .
• Proven experience in managing a significant category, preferably beverages.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data and market insights.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills with suppliers.
• Solid understanding of retail operations and consumer behavior.
• Proficiency in category management software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , with a hybrid working arrangement.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-related bonus structure.
• Medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Generous staff discount on company products.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within the retail sector.
• Hybrid work model for better work-life integration.
• Be a key contributor to a leading retail brand in the region.

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