CATEGORY MANAGER

A diversified group is looking for a dynamic executive to lead category management in one of its business units. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who meets the requirements indicated below;

1.PURPOSE OF THE JOB

Responsible for managing a group of products within a common category to maximise on product appeal drive growth and ensure profitability, To focus and specialize in the development of a category of products.

2. REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

The position reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

3. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

3 1 Category Strategy: Works with the CEO to develop the category management strategy for a portfolio of products and executes work activities guided by the strategy
3.2 Consumer Insights and Research: • Conducts research to understand consumer insights around products in the category and similar products. • Researches on competitor products and suggests appropriate pricing and marketing activities. :
3. 3 Pricing: Liaises with Sales. Marketing and Finance to determine viable product pricing. .
3. 4 Product Availability:
• Responsible for demand planning to ensure availability of products.
• Makes forecasts on product demand to ensure sustainability of inventory.
3 5 Marketing: Coordinates all marketing activities with the objective of optimising sales.
3 6 Innovation: Coordinates the development of new products and works on continuously improving existing products.
3.7 Market Share: Responsible for growing the market share of category products through venous channels, including key accounts.
3.8 Product Profitability: • Conducts regular product profitability analyses to ensure the viability of products in the portfolio • Identifies under-performing products and develops remedies, recommending appropriate action to the CEO. • Responsible for margin enhancement strategies. 3.9Category Budget: Prepares budget for the category and manages all activities within the budget

4. QUALIFICATIONS

A Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing, Business Administration or equivalent qualification An MBA or Masters in Marketing would be an added advantage.

5. EXPERIENCE

• A minimum of 5 years working experience in a Marketing or Sales role, with category management experience in a Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) environment. • Business management.

6. COMPETENCIES

• Sound knowledge of category management, marketing and sales principles. • Strong data analysis and forecasting skills. • Strategic thinking. • Excellent communication and people/customer management skills. • Strong negotiation skills. • Ability to work in a cross-functional team.