Catman Jobs are looking for an exceptional category individual to head up a team within a major FMCG manufacturer. 

The Business

Through consistent organic growth followed by a strategic 'up skilling' of the category marketing function, the business has positioned itself to deliver on some exciting growth plans over the next 5 years. Operating across brand and own label in a highly competitive but innovative food category the group have been synonymous within the industry for a number of years however the everyday shopper would not necessarily be aware of the breadth of their influence. Rather than trading on price or selling on a brand they have grown through a premium innovative product offering backed up by exceptional category relationships. 

The Role

As part of the long term plan will come a major investment and continued development of the Category resource across the group in addition to an already well-established function. In accordance with this, they now seek to appoint an individual to lead category across retail which will include involvement with Top4. 

Working to develop the strategic relationship with UK customers you, with support of your team will develop robust and industry leading joint Category business plans with the long term growth of the category as a whole at the forefront of your decision making process. You will use all aspects of the latest category, customer and shopper marketing techniques to deliver success for the retailer. 

With a presence in both brand and own label within the role you will not be solely a traditional 'Category Expert' but must also be able to bring in broader marketing, innovation and customer marketing understanding. 

The Individual

You will already possess significant tactical exposure to the category market and will have been developing your strategic development skills over the last few years. The position therefore represents a key step in your career and will combine both commercial interactions in conjunction with internally influencing both brand and product development. 

You could be an already established controller frustrated with the lack of freedom and scope within your current role or be a Senior Category Manager at 'the top of your game' with man management experience and looking for the next step. 

The Opportunity

This will be a tough environment for many, where the exposure in one quarter will be the equivalent of that gained in a year.  Therefore shrinking violets need not apply.  However if you have the intellectual head room to influence internally and lead a category agenda then consider this role as a progressive and exciting part of your career plan. 

CatMan jobs specialise in Category, Trade, Customer and Shopper marketing and insight across the UK.