Category Manager

Established in Manchester over 60 years ago, my client recognised an opportunity within their market for a range of; household, DIY and automotive products, that combined high quality with competitive pricing. Today they boast an impressive range of over 1500 items and employ over 100 people, both at their modern refurbished offices and 200,000 square foot distribution centre.

They offer a range of recognisable brands and products encompassing a range of categories, from DIY to Pet, Automotive to Arts and Crafts and First Aid to Gardening. Each brand benefits from a unique profile and distinct, attractive packaging.

Recently my client has acquired a business to bolster and increase the range of personal care products that they are able to offer to their customers. They have also identified that they will need to appoint a senior individual into the organisation, to take a lead in a Category Management and Product Development capacity. The primary focus of this role will not only be managing the existing Personal Care ranges but also identifying new areas in which the business can develop new and profitable lines.

The Role:

• You will be responsible for strategic planning and leading the development of category strategy across all personal care brands.
• You will work cross functionally with the Commercial, Purchasing and Manufacturing teams, leading product range reviews and the definition of value proposition/ product positioning.
• Identifying new opportunities to add new and/or complimentary products to the existing ranges or the development of completely new lines is a key pillar of this role.
• As the business grows you will have the experience and gravitas to take on a senior leadership position within the organisation.

The Requirements:

• You will be from within the personal care market, with Category management skills but also experience of Product development.
• Good understanding of sourcing, manufacturing, product design and development of personal care products.
• Strong management and influencing skills are highly desirable as the successful candidate will be leading cross functional teams with both the Sourcing and Manufacturing teams.
• You will have experience with national retail accounts with a focus on Pharmacy and Value retailers, however experience with 1st and 2nd Tier retailers would also be desirable.
• Specific experience with Shampoo’s, Body Washes, Hand Creams, Aerosol’s and other ‘Body Care’ products is a must.
• You will ideally hold a Degree or equivalent in Marketing and have circa 5 years’ experience within Category or Product Marketing.