Category Manager at Promasidor

JOB OBJECTIVE

• The Category Manager is responsible for managing and developing strategies based on in-depth understanding of market trends. The role drives category performance through data-driven analysis, market insights, and effective stakeholder / cross functional collaboration. They will develop category plans that align with company objectives and deliver profitable growth.
• The Category Manager will also serve as a key partner to sales, manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure right product quality, optimal product placement, pricing, promotions, and distribution strategies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Category Strategy Development:

• Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies that support the overall business objectives.
• Conduct thorough market analysis and competitor benchmarking to identify growth opportunities.
• Lead long-term planning, innovation pipelines, and category expansion initiatives.
• Work with 3rd party agencies, media and digital team to develop compelling campaigns and content that drive category growth.

Market and Consumer Insights:

• Analyze consumer behavior, market trends, and category performance using data from internal and external sources (e.g. Nielsen, Kantar, IPSOS).
• Leverage insights to identify opportunities for new product development, range optimization, and market penetration.
• Monitor competitor activities and adjust strategies accordingly to maintain a competitive advantage.

Product Development and Innovation:

• Identify opportunities for innovation and new product launches, collaborate with product development.
• Ensure the category portfolio meets customer needs, market demand, and aligns with company objectives.
• Oversee product lifecycle management, including product rationalization, renovation, and discontinuation where necessary.

Pricing, Promotion, and Merchandising:

• Drive pricing strategies that optimize profitability while maintaining market competitiveness.
• Partner with sales teams to develop promotional plans that drive consumer engagement and retail execution.
• Collaborate with merchandising teams to ensure proper in-store execution, product placement, and shelving strategies.

Sales and Financial Management:

• Work closely with the sales team to ensure the successful execution of category initiatives across key accounts and retail partners.
• Track and report on category performance, adjusting strategies as needed to meet financial targets.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Act as the central point of contact for all matters related to the assigned category.
• Work with supply chain & manufacturing teams to ensure product availability and efficient inventory management.

Leadership and Team Development:

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and coaching to brand managers and Assistant brand managers.
• Promote a collaborative and performance-driven culture within the team and across departments.
• Drive best practices in category management and share knowledge.

Financial scope:

• Responsible for effective and efficient management of category allocated budget with monthly status reporting.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field. A master’s degree (MBA) is preferred.
• CIM Level 6 or higher or other relevant certifications
• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in marketing / brand management, product management, or a related role, with a focus on FMCG.
• Proven experience in developing and executing category strategies that drive profitable growth.
• Strong experience in working with market data and analytics tools

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Strong commercial acumen with an ability to interpret data and develop actionable insights.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint).

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Self-motivated
• Analytical
• Articulate – verbal and written