Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY
We are looking for an individual to drive high-performing category teams to deliver the commercial performance of the Everyday Essentials Category. The role involves executing our range strategy and value proposition to ensure remains the first-choice health and beauty retailer, grow market share, achieve and exceed category financial targets, and deliver business objectives.
JOB OBJECTIVES
Develop and ensure effective execution of the category operating plan (financial and product execution) for a portfolio of categories to achieve business objectives
Review top-down and bottom-up financial plans with the Planning Portfolio Manager, ensuring weekly reporting against targets
Manage a team of Category Buyers and Managers, set ambitious goals, and develop improvement plans for product ranging, pricing strategies, cross-sales, merchandising, and promotion management
Critically evaluate and sign off category range reviews to improve profitability, product offering, and market share
Implement space and range principles to deliver impactful in-store execution
Oversee strategic meetings with key suppliers, strengthening relationships and driving commercial results
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure effective delivery of the operating plan
Track global and local category developments/trends to ensure relevance to customers
Identify opportunities to streamline operations, drive departmental efficiencies, manage departmental expense budgets, and reduce expenses
Build high-performing teams through effective people management, recruitment, and development aligned with transformation targets
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Job Knowledge:
Operating plan development
Supplier relationship management
Procurement and supply chain
Business objectives and strategies
Business processes
Retail management
Market trends and competitor analysis
Supplier co-op negotiations and trading terms
Financial planning and budgeting
Employee relations and performance management
Knowledge of relevant legislation
Job Experience:
46 years FMCG Category Management experience
23 years People Management experience at senior level
Experience with local and global supplier networks essential
Education:
B Degree or Diploma in Retail, Purchasing Management, or similar (Desirable)
Business Science, B.Comm, MBA, CIS (Desirable)
JOB-RELATED SKILLS
Ability to drive and motivate teams
Strong financial/business acumen with a merchant mindset
Strong negotiation skills
Planning and organisational skills
Ability to build strong supplier relationships
Proven track record managing commercial teams in a fast-changing environment
Competency in computer packages (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint)
Verbal and written communication skills
Problem-solving and analytical thinking
Strategic thinking and decision-making
Attention to detail
Project management skills

Skills Required