London based fine food distributor is looking for a Category Manager who will own the commercial performance of the Pastry category, driving strategy, profitability, supplier relationships, risk management, and long-term growth. Acting as the subject matter expert, The Category Manager will ensure the business stays ahead of market trends, regulations, and customer expectations. This is a senior, hands-on role requiring strong commercial acumen, product expertise, supplier management, and cross-functional leadership.
The Category Manager for Pastry reports to the Head of Categories and manages a team of up to three direct reports.
ROLE of the Category Manager:
Category Management & Development:
- Supporting and delivering the Pastry category strategy in line with overall commercial objectives
- Monitoring market trends, pricing, and seasonality to inform decisions
- Identifying range improvements and new product opportunities
- Building business cases using data and analysis
- Managing supplier review schedules and performance feedback
Supplier Engagement & Commercial Support:
- Building strong supplier relationships and supporting commercial negotiations
- Monitoring supplier KPIs and driving performance improvements
- Coordinating supplier visits, product reviews, and training
Financial & Operational Contribution:
- Supporting margin performance through cost control and pricing accuracy
- Contributing to demand planning and stock management
- Maintaining accurate product and pricing data in ERP systems
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Working with Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Quality, and Sustainability teams
- Supporting Sales with product knowledge and insights
- Partnering with Marketing on promotions and product positioning
- Ensuring product quality and compliance standards are met
Process Improvement:
- Identifying opportunities to improve processes and data accuracy
- Supporting system and automation initiatives
- Contributing to Sales Management meetings with insights and recommendations
PROFILE:
- Minimum of 3 years’ manager experience in food distribution industry with a comprehensive knowledge of the Pastry & Bakery industry both locally and internationally.
- Organised with an excellent eye for detail, proven ability to handle large amounts of information to translate in to clear, specific instructions and targets.
- A commercially driven mindset is a must with entrepreneurial attitude towards pursuit of goals
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Knowledge on UK P.O.A.O import regulations a plus.
- A dynamic individual with experience in dealing with multiple suppliers.
- Able to build strong relationships, both externally and internally, influence decisions with leadership
- Strong analytical and presentation skills is a must with proven experience using Excel, PowerPoint and ERP systems
- French will be a plus
SALARY & BENEFITS:
- Up to £55k/y negotiable according to skills and experience + Bonus
- Car allowance
- Medical insurance, pension, etc
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