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Category Manager – Procurement /Buying – Cork
A leading player in the retail and wholesale sector is seeking an experienced and strategic Category Manager to lead a key procurement portfolio. Based in Cork, this is an exciting opportunity to drive category performance, shape long-term strategy, and play a pivotal role in the commercial success of a dynamic and growing business.
The Role
Reporting into the senior commercial leadership team, you will be responsible for:
* Developing and executing robust, data-driven category strategies aimed at delivering sustainable growth in revenue, margin, market share, and customer value.
* Leading the development of annual buying plans, commercial targets and budgets, and aligning with relevant trading and planning stakeholders.
* Driving the commercial planning cycle, including product range planning across branded and own-label lines, ensuring alignment with the company's brand positioning and profitability goals.
* Creating and embedding effective commercial processes and systems to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery of category initiatives.
* Supporting group-wide commercial programmes and contributing to the broader Commercial strategy.
* Building and maintaining strong, long-term supplier and retailer relationships, including the development of Joint Business Plans, and driving supplier engagement through forums, visits and collaborative activities.
* Leading and developing a high-performing category team, ensuring the right capabilities, resources and support are in place to meet strategic goals.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a commercially driven and people-focused individual with the following background:
* A minimum of 10+ years experience and minimum 5 years expereince in a senior commercial or procurement role, ideally within retail, FMCG or wholesale, managing a sizeable trading portfolio with a record of success in delivering commercial outcomes.
* Strong leadership and team management experience, with a passion for developing talent and fostering high-performance cultures.
* Demonstrated strategic thinking, with a structured, analytical approach to category development.
* Exceptional negotiation skills, with the ability to influence internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to present confidently and manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
* Highly numerate, with strong skills in data interpretation and commercial analysis.
* A customer-centric mindset, with a strong commitment to service and quality.
Why Join?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established, forward-thinking organisation during a time of growth and transformation. You’ll work in a supportive, commercially focused environment with the autonomy to make a tangible impact. The role offers a competitive salary package, opportunities for career development, and the chance to help shape the future of category management within a respected industry leader.
Location: Cork, with flexible hybrid working options available.
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