Category Manager: Chilled Perishables

About this role

SPAR is looking for a Category Manager for chilled perishables based in Cape Town. The job focuses on growing sales and profit for the distribution centre (DC) and its retailers through careful planning, buying and sales strategy.

What you’ll do

• Meet DC and retail sales and profitability budgets and targets.
• Negotiate prices that stay competitive with other stores while keeping retail margins on budget.
• Work with suppliers, retailers and the DC’s buying, retail operations and logistics teams to build retailer loyalty.
• Plan and run ad hoc and regional promotions that increase volume at retail.
• Monitor supplier service levels, including order fill, out-of-stocks, stock days, stock turn and stock distribution at retail.
• Take full accountability for the category, and drive product development, innovation and other sales initiatives.
• Help retailers with store standards, product specifications, ranging, pricing and in-store promotions, and lead a support team.

What you need

• Matric (Grade 12).
• A degree or diploma in marketing or purchasing.
• At least 3 years’ retail or FMCG experience in a marketing position.
• Experience in sales and in managing and developing customer relationships.
• Buying and category management experience.
• Thorough knowledge of buying systems and processes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of product ranges in a supermarket environment.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills.
• Financial awareness, leadership skills and attention to detail.
• Drive, initiative and a sense of urgency, with the ability to solve problems under pressure.

Is this job for you?

This role suits an experienced buyer or category professional who enjoys hitting targets and working closely with suppliers and store owners. You should be comfortable leading a team and working in a fast-paced, demanding environment.

Tips before you apply

• Have your certified copy of your matric certificate and your degree or diploma ready to upload.
• On your CV, show specific results, such as sales growth, margin improvement or supplier performance gains in chilled or fresh categories.
• Describe your 3+ years of retail or FMCG marketing experience clearly, with dates, employers and the team you led.

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