Category Manager – FMCG

Job Description

· We seek a proficient and strategic category manager to join our team at AWS Distribution.

· As a category manager, you will oversee and optimise the performance of a specific product category within our company.

· This includes negotiating with suppliers, leveraging their expertise to secure advantageous terms and maintaining stron supplier relationships.

· You will also work closely with cross-functional teams to establish optimal pricing structures and ensure competitiveness.

· You will work with talented professionals, shape our product assortment and contribute to our company's success in the competitive market.

Objectives of this role

· Developing and executing strategic plans for the assigned product category to drive sales and profitability.

· Analysing market trends, consumer behaviour and competitor activities in order to identify growth opportunities and market gaps.

· Collaborating with various teams, like marketing and sales to identify and implement new products, services and marketing initiatives.

· Managing product assortment, pricing, promotions and inventory to optimise category performance.

· Evaluating customer feedback and implementing changes to enhance the overall customer experience and drive customer loyalty.

· Developing solid relationships with key vendors and suppliers to improve category offerings and negotiate favourable terms.

Your tasks

· Conduct thorough market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, competitive landscape and customer preferences and provide actionable plans.

· Develop and execute comprehensive category management strategies to achieve business objectives and drive growth.

· Maintain robust category management tools and processes, ensuring seamless strategy execution across the organisation.

· Monitor and evaluate category performance, leveraging key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective measures.

· Lead supplier negotiations, ensuring favourable terms and conditions to drive cost savings and strengthen supplier relationships.

· Execute pricing strategies and promotional plans to optimise profitability while considering market dynamics and customer value perception.

· Stay up-to-date with industry trends, competitor activities and technological advancements to provide recommendations to senior management.

· Required skills and qualifications SA bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or a related field. 3+ years of experience as a category manager in the FMCG with Strong understanding of the GCC market, consumer behaviour and retail trends.

· Proficiency in utilising Microsoft Office Suite, category management tools and software for data analysis and reporting.

· Flexibility to adapt to the changing market dynamics, consumer preferences and organisational priorities.

· Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions. Excellent communication and negotiation skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

· Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment

Job Type: Full-time