Category Planning Manager

About the role

This position sits within Category Development and reports to the Category Strategy Senior Manager. It is centred on strengthening category strategy and commercial performance through improved reporting, smarter tools, and better ways of working, with a strong emphasis on the ABP framework.

The Category Planning Manager will take ownership of category range review automation, help introduce and enhance key tools and technologies, and support the team in building capability through training. A further part of the role is making sure category resources remain aligned, practical, and consistent across the wider team.

Core responsibilities

• Own the ongoing tracking of distribution and space by creating reporting tools and spotting opportunities across customers to help guide strategic decisions with senior category leaders.
• Drive automation for category range reviews and support the rollout of related processes.
• Manage the working relationship with DC Activ and continue progress on implementing Impact XP, along with future enhancements, training, and team support.
• Help shape upcoming tool features and carry out testing as improvements are introduced.
• Lead the training plan for tools and technology across the team and broader CD functions.
• Maintain a consistent set of strategic category materials and resources.
• Support category planning outputs such as Environment, Sector, IC/FC forecasts, and merchandising principles.
• Contribute to strategic category initiatives, including projects such as Aisle of the Future.

Skills and experience

• Proven experience in managing projects and driving change.
• Strong planning, coordination, networking, and influencing abilities.
• Comfort working in an agile environment.
• Ability to learn new systems and software quickly.
• A proactive, resilient approach with genuine interest in developing the category.
• Confidence in influencing stakeholders and bringing others along through change.
• Curiosity, determination, adaptability, and a strong appetite for innovation.
• Previous FMCG category management experience is useful but not required.

Additional information

This role is based in Uxbridge, England, United Kingdom, and is a full-time onsite position.