Category Lead- F& B Retail

The Category Lead for F&B Retail will be responsible for the strategic development and execution of category plans to drive sales, profitability, and market share within the food and beverage retail sector. This role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of consumer trends, supplier relationships, and retail operations. The successful candidate will manage the entire lifecycle of products within their assigned categories, from sourcing and procurement to merchandising and promotional activities, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives and customer satisfaction.

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies aligned with company goals, market trends, and consumer insights.
• Manage the full product lifecycle for assigned F&B categories, including selection, sourcing, pricing, promotion, and inventory management.
• Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to identify new opportunities, product gaps, and emerging trends.
• Negotiate favorable terms with suppliers, including pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and promotional support.
• Collaborate with marketing and merchandising teams to create compelling promotional campaigns and in-store displays.
• Monitor sales performance, inventory levels, and profitability for all products within the category, taking corrective actions as needed.
• Analyze sales data, customer feedback, and market performance to optimize product assortment and category performance.
• Lead and mentor a team of category professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations, quality standards, and company policies.
• Manage category budgets and P&L, striving to achieve financial targets and maximize ROI.
• Work closely with supply chain and operations to ensure efficient product flow and availability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field
• Postgraduate qualification is a plus

Required Skills

• 5–8 years of experience in category management, merchandising, or buying
• Proven track record of managing commercial KPIs and category growth
• Strong expertise in category management and retail operations
• Solid understanding of pricing, promotions, and assortment planning
• Advanced analytical skills with experience in data-driven decision making