Category Manager (Cheers Buying)

Role Purpose

The Category Manager is tasked with overseeing strategic planning, sourcing, pricing, and performance management for assigned product categories. The objective is to generate growth by utilizing data-driven decisions, fostering supplier partnerships, planning promotions, and executing operational activities to boost sales and profitability.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and deploy comprehensive strategies for designated categories to align with corporate goals and adapt to changing consumer demands.
• Perform routine assortment evaluations to refine product mix, pricing frameworks, and country-of-origin considerations.
• Spot opportunities to enhance category expansion, increase perceived value, and improve shopper experience.
• Procure and manage a varied supplier network locally and internationally.
• Lead commercial negotiation processes to obtain competitive pricing, guarantee supply reliability, and explore unique supply arrangements such as consignment or exclusivity.
• Establish strong vendor relationships to support innovation, assure product quality, and advance collaborative marketing activities.
• Ensure that vendor-operated outlets adhere to internal brand standards, pricing policies, and selection guidelines.
• Maintain adherence to food safety, ethical sourcing, and sustainability protocols across supplier and product interactions.
• Create pricing tactics that maintain a balance between market competitiveness and profitability, informed by industry trends and margin objectives.
• Oversee the planning and successful execution of promotional campaigns, seasonal events, and special pricing initiatives.

Requirements

• At least four years’ experience in Category Management, Merchandising, Procurement, or Buying within retail, FMCG, or grocery sectors.
• Proven track record managing profit and loss accounts, achieving sales objectives, and driving category growth via assortment optimization and promotions.
• Solid background in local and international sourcing, with in-depth knowledge of supply chain logistics and origin planning.
• Strong commercial insight with demonstrated ability in leading complex negotiations, securing cost competitiveness, and managing vendor compliance and service level agreements.
• Proficiency in data analysis and retail mathematics including margin calculations, GMROI, and sell-through metrics; capable of translating data and market trends into effective strategies.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel functions such as VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables; familiar with retail ERP or inventory systems.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, cold chain logistics, and sustainable sourcing practices is highly beneficial.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal capabilities, able to influence cross-functional teams and nurture strong vendor partnerships.