This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Category leader to shape and deliver category strategy for a leading FMCG business, driving growth through shopper, consumer and market insights across major UK retail customers. Leading a high-performing team, you will partner closely with Sales and Marketing functions to influence customer decisions, unlock growth opportunities and position the business as a category leader within its markets.

Client Details

Our client is a leading FMCG manufacturer with an impressive portfolio of consumer brands sold across all major UK retailers. Driven by innovation and a consumer-first mindset, they are investing heavily in their commercial and category functions to support their next phase of growth.

Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of Category to join a leading FMCG business.

This role sits at the heart of the commercial function, leading the Category team to deliver best-in-class shopper, consumer and market insight that drives growth across major UK grocery and retail customers. Working closely with Sales, Marketing and Customer teams, you will shape category strategy, influence key customer decisions, and ensure the business remains customer and consumer-led in its approach to ranging, promotional planning, category development and growth opportunities.

'This is not a procurement, sourcing or supply chain position. It is a customer-facing Category leadership role focused on understanding shoppers, consumers and retailers to unlock commercial growth.'

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Category Management function, creating a high-performing and insight-led team.
• Own and deliver the category strategy across key UK retail and wholesale customers.
• Act as the voice of the shopper and consumer across the organisation.
• Convert consumer, shopper and market data into actionable recommendations that drive growth.
• Partner with National Account Managers and Sales Leadership to develop customer-specific category plans.
• Leverage data from Circana, NielsenIQ, Kantar and retailer sources to identify trends and opportunities.
• Lead category conversations with major retail partners, building credibility and strengthening customer relationships.
• Influence decisions around range reviews, category vision selling, promotional effectiveness and shelf strategy.
• Collaborate with Marketing teams on innovation launches and category development initiatives.
• Present strategic recommendations to senior stakeholders internally and externally.
• Develop long-term growth plans that support revenue, market share and profitability objectives.

Profile

The successful candidate will have:

• Significant Category Management experience within an FMCG or Consumer Goods environment.
• Previous leadership experience managing Category, Insights or Shopper Marketing teams.
• Strong understanding of UK grocery, convenience, wholesale or e-commerce channels.
• Experience partnering with major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, Waitrose, Booker, Co-op or Ocado.
• Excellent commercial awareness and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using NielsenIQ, Circana, Kantar and retailer data platforms.
• A proven track record of delivering category growth and influencing customer strategy.
• Exceptional presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to turn data into compelling recommendations.
• Experience leading customer-facing category reviews and strategic retail partnerships.
• A passion for understanding shopper behaviour, consumer trends and market dynamics.

Job Offer

• Basic salary of up to £95,000
• Annual performance-related bonus
• Hybrid working model with a London-based office
• Private healthcare
• Enhanced pension contribution
• Life assurance
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Staff discount and product allowance
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• Clear progression opportunities within a growing FMCG business

If you're interested in this role, apply now.

People are at the heart of Michael Page. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. As an inclusive recruiter we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, we'll work with you to ensure you can perform at your best.