A leading UK food manufacturer, specialising in premium chilled products,seeks a strategic Category Manager to drive category growth across major retailers.

This senior role within the commercial team offers the chance to shape category strategies rooted in shopper insights for a business with a rich heritage and ambitious expansion plans.

Role Overview

You'll collaborate with business directors, insight teams, and NPD specialists to craft category plans that align with retailer objectives and deliver sustainable growth.

Reporting to the Senior Category Manager, you'll lead customer reviews, influence product development through the stage-gate process, and champion the shopper voice across the organisation.

The position is site-based near Leicester with customer travel, suiting professionals who thrive in dynamic, insight-led environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute customer-specific category plans, identifying growth priorities through robust data analysis.

• Lead market and category reviews with retailers, leveraging tools like Kantar, Dunnhumby, and EPOS for actionable insights.

• Integrate shopper understanding into NPD briefs and stage-gate processes, closing knowledge gaps via targeted research.

• Own point of purchase strategies, including ranging, merchandising, pricing, and promotions.

• Mentor category executives, foster team development, and communicate insights compellingly to stakeholders.

Essential Experience and Skills

• Proven category management in FMCG, ideally own-label food & beverage, at a senior level.

• Strong experience with UK retailers, interpreting consumer data (e.g., loyalty panels, Mintel), and delivering impactful presentations.

• Excellent Excel and PowerPoint skills; full UK driving license and ability to travel.
  Ideal candidates bring chilled category expertise, Tesco knowledge, or strategic vision development.

This role will appeal to ambitious senior professionals ready to influence a growing food business and to advance their career in category leadership.

Apply with your CV today or contact us for more information about this excellent opportunity in the food manufacturing sector.