Category Planning Manager

About the Role

The Category Planning Manager position, reporting directly to the Senior Manager of Category Strategy, is centered on enhancing category strategy and performance. This is achieved through developing advanced reporting mechanisms, innovating tools, and improving processes, especially aligned with the Annual Business Plan (ABP) framework. A key part of this role is to lead automation initiatives for category range reviews, facilitate the adoption and continuous improvement of essential tools and technology, and nurture team capabilities through targeted training to ensure uniformity across category resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee constant monitoring of distribution and space within the ABP process by creating effective reporting tools and pinpointing opportunities across customer bases to guide strategic directions alongside Senior Category Managers.
• Manage the collaboration with DC Activ to progress implementation of Impact XP and further develop related tools, including refining processes, conducting training, and supporting the team.
• Shape future functionalities of these tools through testing and feedback.
• Lead the development and execution of a training roadmap to enhance technology proficiency within the team and wider Category Development functions.
• Maintain a cohesive Toolkit of strategic category resources, including environmental and sector category forecasts and merchandising principles.
• Contribute support for strategic category projects such as the "Aisle of the Future."

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in project management and leading change efforts.
• Strong organizational, networking, and influencing capabilities.
• Familiarity with agile working environments.
• Aptitude for quickly mastering new software systems.
• Demonstrated passion, proactive ownership, and resilience in driving category growth.
• Effective influence skills and ability to engage stakeholders effectively.
• Behavioral attributes include innovation orientation, openness to change, curiosity, resilience, determination, and a strong drive.
• Prior experience in FMCG category management is preferred but not mandatory.