Category Development Manager
The Category Development Manager will be responsible for the management and engagement of a portfolio of Brand Partners, acting as their primary point of contact within Johnson Bros. This role will lead the creation and execution of annual Commercial Growth Plans, setting and monitoring agreed KPI targets, coordinating performance reviews, and ensuring effective communication and delivery of plans across the commercial and field teams.
Key Responsibilities & Deliverables
Commercial Growth Planning
* Develop and deliver annual Commercial Growth Plans in partnership with Brand Partners.
* Set and monitor KPI performance and conduct regular business reviews.
* Coordinate Category Growth Workshops and In-store Safaris to identify new growth opportunities across existing and emerging channels.
Trade Spend Management
* Oversee, review, and optimise trade spend to ensure return on investment and sustainable growth.
Range & Price Pack Architecture
* Work collaboratively with Brand Partners and customers to manage range and pricing strategies.
* Implement rationalisation where necessary to drive profitable and sustainable growth.
Commercial Execution & Communication
* Communicate and cascade Commercial Growth Plans effectively to customer and field teams.
* Track and measure delivery against agreed objectives.
Retailer Engagement & Sell-In Support
* Partner with Brand Partners and the Commercial Team to support the sell-in of category initiatives to retail customers.
Forecasting & Demand Planning
* Lead monthly Category Forecast Reviews with customers and the Demand Planning Team, ensuring accurate alignment between supply and demand.
* Conduct reviews of base and promotional performance, applying learnings to future forecasts.
* Manage stock levels to maintain high service standards while minimising excess or slow-moving inventory.
* Oversee NPD (New Product Development) performance reviews and coordinate inbound and outbound logistics where required.
Key Skills & Experience
* Minimum 7 years' experience in a sales, buying, or brand management role within the Irish food industry.
* Deep understanding of the Irish grocery retail sector and its key stakeholders.
* Strong commercial acumen, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
* Proven ability to build and nurture strong internal and external relationships at all levels.
* Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, generate insights, and translate findings into actionable strategies.
* Results-driven with a collaborative and cross‑functional approach to achieving business goals.
* Highly organised with strong planning skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
* Proactive and forward‑thinking, capable of independently planning 12 months ahead for their category.
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Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full‑time
Job function
* Sales and Business Development
* Administrative and Support Services
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