Category & Insights Manager - Grocery

About the Company

Joining DB Breweries means becoming part of the wider HEINEKEN network, a global business operating across 70 countries. The organisation values individuality, fresh thinking, and continuous growth, and its culture is shaped by four core principles: passion for consumers and customers, care for people and the planet, enjoyment of life, and the courage to innovate and lead.

Role Overview

This permanent, full-time position in Auckland sits within the Category Strategy team and plays an important role in improving category performance and generating insights for the Grocery channel. The role acts as the main Grocery channel representative and the category lead for Domestic Beer brands, covering Mainstream and Craft. It works closely with Sales, Marketing, and customers to identify and act on growth opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare reporting and insight packs that support performance improvement in the Grocery channel.
• Analyse shopper and category information, including Nielsen and Quantium-style datasets, to guide commercial decisions.
• Assist with planning cycles, customer business reviews, and new product launches.
• Spot emerging risks early and recommend practical responses.
• Contribute to Grocery channel strategy and annual planning activities.
• Translate data findings into clear, commercially sound recommendations.
• Support customer planning and joint business planning processes.
• Work in partnership with Revenue and Trade Marketing teams.
• Serve as the primary category contact for Grocery customers.
• Lead category discussions and identify avenues for growth.
• Recommend actions related to assortment, pricing, promotions, and shelf space.
• Coordinate closely with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment.
• Support the category vision for Domestic Beer across Mainstream and Craft brands.
• Partner with Brand and Trade Marketing teams on category initiatives.
• Contribute to new product development and trade presentation materials.
• Suggest improvements in volume, distribution, pricing, and overall performance.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate brings at least 5 years of experience in category, sales, or marketing, with FMCG experience being preferred. The role calls for strong analytical ability, comfort working with data, and the confidence to influence a range of stakeholders. Strong communication and presentation skills are essential, along with solid Excel capability. Experience with scan data tools such as Nielsen is required, while exposure to shopper data platforms like Quantium would be an advantage.

Benefits

• Free health, life, and income protection insurance.
• Employer KiwiSaver contribution of 5%.
• Monthly allowance for beer, cider, RTDs, or alcohol-free drinks.
• Discounts at Star Hospitality venues for employees.
• An additional paid day off each year for something personally enjoyable.
• Enhanced parental leave support.
• Access to free confidential counselling.
• Digital wills, feminine hygiene products, and retail discounts.
• Commitment to fair pay initiatives through Mind the Gap and the Pacific Pay Gap Inquiry.

Additional Information

This role is based in Auckland and is offered as a permanent full-time position. Applicants are asked to submit a CV along with a brief cover note describing their experience and what interests them about the opportunity. Recruitment agencies are not being considered for this vacancy.