Category Manager

MKM is the leading independent builders’ merchant in the UK, established in 1995. We have more than 143 branches and over 3,300 employees nationwide and actively promote diversity and inclusion across the organisation.

Location

Hull, with hybrid working as an option.

Job Summary

Due to expansion, we are seeking a proactive and commercially driven Category Manager to join our dynamic category team at MKM. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in managing a number of product categories, focusing on deep engagement with our branch network, fostering strong supplier relationships, and driving commercial success. This role will be hybrid – with 3 days a week based within our Central Support function in Hull.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with Branch Directors and their teams to understand local market needs and ensure, through product and commercial agreements, our branches can be market leaders in their locality.
• Provide guidance and support to branches, enabling the most appropriate decisions to be made at a local level.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, negotiating commercial terms that enhance MKM’s position as a market‑leading growth business.
• Work with suppliers to ensure product availability at all times, understand market and legislation changes, and support joint marketing initiatives.
• Monitor supplier performance, addressing any issues promptly to maintain and future‑proof the MKM supply chain.
• Review and understand sales and margin data, market trends, and customer insights to develop and implement progressive category strategies.
• Collaborate with internal teams within central support to drive category growth and ensure a competitive edge in the market.
• Oversee the product lifecycle from selection to discontinuation, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimising aged stock.
• Lead product and range reviews to keep category offerings relevant on a local basis and profitable.
• Coordinate with the marketing team to develop impactful campaigns that highlight key products and drive customer numbers.
• Regularly review category performance, providing detailed reports and actionable insights to senior management.
• Use data‑driven analysis to forecast trends, identify risks, and realise commercial opportunities within the category.
• Work cross‑functionally with all teams within Central Support, including Marketing, Digital, Finance and Trading Support.
• Communicate category plans and actions effectively across the business, ensuring local branch needs are recognised and met.

Key Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a similar role within a builder’s merchant or related sector.
• Strong understanding of commercial principles and a track record of driving category profitability.
• Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to foster long‑term, beneficial relationships with suppliers.
• Experience working closely with branch networks, understanding their operational needs and challenges.
• Proficiency in analysing market and category data to inform decision making and support branch decision processes.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strategic thinking and the ability to develop and implement effective category strategies aligned with the wider MKM business objectives.

Benefits

• A competitive pay package.
• Performance‑related bonus.
• Car allowance.
• People‑oriented culture.
• Substantial staff discounts.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Holiday scheme which rewards length of service.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme.
• Perkbox discounts.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Financial Planning Support.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Free parking.
• Enhanced Maternity Leave.
• Enhanced Paternity Leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Mental Health Support.

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