Category Manager

About the team

The Merchandise team at Foodstuffs South Island works at pace and plays a central role in connecting products with customers. The team shapes decisions around product range, pricing, promotions, and shelf presentation, while partnering with suppliers and using data to improve value and customer experience.

The team culture is driven, accountable, and straightforward, with a balance of hard work and good humour. The business is heading into the second half of 2026 with strong momentum and is looking for someone keen to help shape growth and success across the South.

About the role

As Category Manager, you will take ownership of category performance and influence how range, pricing, and promotions are delivered for South Island customers. You will use customer, market, and commercial information to make practical decisions that support better outcomes. Reporting to a Senior Category Manager, you will work across the Merchandise team, as well as with suppliers and internal stakeholders, to help deliver commercial results.

This is a fixed-term opportunity through August 2027, covering another team member’s internal role.

Key responsibilities

• Build and implement category plans across assortment, pricing, and promotional activity.
• Manage day-to-day supplier relationships and support commercial discussions and negotiations.
• Coordinate category reviews and contribute to joint business planning.
• Analyse data and insights to spot opportunities and lift performance.
• Work with internal teams so plans are executed effectively in market.
• Maintain momentum across your categories by managing priorities and ensuring follow-through.

About you

You are likely already working in FMCG or another commercial environment, with experience either close to category management or ready to step into it. You should be proactive, relationship-focused, and comfortable turning plans into action.

The ideal candidate will bring experience working with suppliers, supporting commercial decision-making, using data and reporting to guide daily work, and keeping tasks organised with strong attention to detail. Clear communication and a practical problem-solving style are also important.

Additional information

This role is based in Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand, and is office-based. Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday 5 July 2026, and applications are only accepted through the company careers site.

If this role is not the right fit, other merchandise opportunities are also available, including Category Review Delivery Manager, Emerging Supplier Manager, Senior Category Manager, and Customer Insights Analyst.

If you have questions about the role or need help with your application, you can contact careers@foodstuffs-si.co.nz.

What we offer

• Flexible working built on trust and empowerment, with an emphasis on balancing personal life and business needs.
• Additional paid parental leave, free period products, and financial health checks.
• Southern Cross health insurance for you and your family after a qualifying period, plus discounts at local gyms, online wellbeing tools, and an onsite prayer and privacy room.
• Ongoing learning and professional development, including access to an extensive online training library.
• A supportive, friendly team culture with events such as Furry Friend Fridays and monthly social activities.
• An inclusive workplace backed by Pride Pledge commitment and a focus on diversity and equity.
• Free car parking and an in-house café at the Papanui office.