Assistant Category Manager

he Assistant Category Manager, reporting to the Category Manager within the Sales & Marketing function, is accountable for category growth and portfolio development in the European market.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Category Strategy & Portfolio Management
  Develop and execute a robust strategy for the sauces and condiments category in alignment with overarching business goals. Identify growth opportunities, analyse market trends, and assess potential risks to ensure long-term category success.

• Product Development & Innovation
  Lead the development of new products within sauces, condiments, and potential ready-to-eat segments-from concept through to launch. Collaborate cross-functionally with Procurement, R&D, Technical Services, Manufacturing, and Quality Assurance to deliver superior products that meet regulatory standards and delight consumers.

• Market Insights & Analysis
  Support the Business & Strategic Planning Director in managing market intelligence for both short- and long-term planning. Conduct research and analysis to understand consumer behaviour, assess competitors, and spot emerging trends.

• Sales & Profitability Management
  Partner with sales teams to execute strategic sales initiatives and promotional activities aimed at achieving revenue targets. Continuously monitor category performance and provide actionable insights to drive growth and improve results.

• Cost Optimisation
  Work closely with Procurement, Supply Chain, and Global Marketing to maintain cost efficiencies, ensuring the category remains price competitive while delivering value to both trade partners and end consumers.

• Marketing & Brand Development
  Collaborate with Digital Marketing and Brand teams to create impactful marketing campaigns and refine brand positioning, ensuring strong visibility and engagement in target markets.

• Team Leadership & Capability Building
  Support senior leadership in building a high-performing team. Mentor and develop talent within the category team, while enhancing category knowledge across commercial functions through training and engagement.

• Financial Planning & Analysis
  Manage the category's financial performance including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis. Make informed, data-driven decisions to enhance commercial outcomes.

• Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance
  Ensure products meet all relevant regulations, food safety requirements, and quality standards. Stay ahead of evolving regulatory, trade, and consumer expectations to maintain brand integrity and secure sustainable growth across the European market.

Job Specification

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA preferred

• Minimum 3 years of experience in sales or marketing within established FMCG food or beverage companies

• Managerial experience with regional exposure in Europe is highly desirable

Requirements & Skills

• Strong strategic mindset with analytical acumen and a proactive, "can-do" approach

• Willingness to travel and work across regions

• Legally eligible to work and be based in the UK, with travel across Europe

• Fluent in spoken and written Mandarin and English; proficiency in Chinese is advantageous

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates