Category & Insights Manager

Overview

This full-time permanent role is based in Auckland and sits within the Category Strategy function at DB Breweries, part of the global HEINEKEN group. The position focuses on category performance and shopper-led insights across the Traditional Liquor and On-Premises channels, with responsibility for championing the International Premium and RTD categories.

About the business

Joining DB Breweries means becoming part of a worldwide brewing network operating across 70 countries. The company promotes individuality, learning, and growth, and is guided by four core values: passion for consumers and customers, care for people and planet, enjoyment of life, and courage to innovate and lead.

Role focus

You will partner closely with Sales, Marketing, and customers to identify growth opportunities, shape channel and category strategy, and turn data into practical commercial actions. This role is central to delivering insights that support decision-making, customer engagement, and product launch planning.

Key responsibilities

The role covers insight generation, category management, channel planning, and cross-functional collaboration. You will also act as a category advocate, helping ensure business decisions are backed by strong analysis and customer understanding.

• Create clear, actionable analysis, reporting, and recommendations for the Traditional Liquor and On-Premises channels.
• Use shopper and category information to support internal decisions and customer discussions.
• Own category insight input during planning cycles, customer reviews, and launch preparations.
• Strengthen internal understanding of shopper behaviour and category trends.
• Contribute to long-term channel strategy and annual planning.
• Convert customer and commercial insights into practical execution plans.
• Present plans to key customers and monitor performance against agreed outcomes.
• Lead category conversations with strategic customers to uncover growth opportunities.
• Review assortment, pricing, promotional activity, and shelf/space opportunities.
• Work with internal teams to keep category plans aligned with wider business goals.
• Partner with Brand and Trade Marketing teams on priority initiatives.
• Support new product launches and trade presentations with category expertise.
• Recommend actions related to volume, distribution, pricing, and performance.
• Spot performance gaps early and help drive corrective actions across brands and customers.

Requirements

Applicants should bring substantial experience in category, sales, or marketing, ideally from an FMCG background. Strong analytical capability, confidence with data, and the ability to influence stakeholders are essential. You should also be able to communicate clearly, present convincingly, and work effectively with internal and external partners.

• At least 5 years of experience in category, sales, or marketing, preferably within FMCG.
• Strong analytical skills and comfort working with business data.
• Ability to influence others and build trusted relationships.
• Confident communication and presentation ability.
• Hands-on experience with scan data tools such as Aztec or Nielsen.
• Exposure to shopper data tools such as Quantium is advantageous.
• Advanced Excel skills.

Benefits

The company offers a broad benefits package and an inclusive workplace culture.

• Free health, life, and income protection insurance.
• Employer KiwiSaver contribution of 5%.
• Monthly allowance for beer, cider, RTDs, or alcohol-free drinks.
• Employee discount at Star Hospitality venues.
• An extra paid “Enjoyment of Life” day each year.
• Enhanced parental leave support.
• Free confidential counselling services.
• Digital wills, feminine hygiene products, and retail discounts.
• Commitment to fair pay through Mind the Gap and the Pacific Pay Gap Inquiry.

Application notes

Candidates are asked to submit a CV along with a short cover note explaining their background and what interests them about the role. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be considered.