Category Planning Manager

Overview

In this role you drive category strategy and performance by developing advanced reporting, tools, and processes within the ABP framework. You lead automation for category range reviews, roll out key tools, and build team capability across the category function. You will collaborate with Senior Category managers to shape direction, train teammates, and ensure consistent category resources. This is an impact-focused role in a global consumer goods setting that values innovation, collaboration, and capability-building.

Responsibilities

• Track distribution and space with ongoing reporting to shape strategic direction alongside Senior Category managers
• Manage Category Range Review Automation initiatives and support the rollout of Impact XP and related tooling
• Influence future tool functionalities and oversee testing activities
• Lead the tools and technology capability training roadmap for the team and wider CD functions
• Maintain a consistent toolkit of strategic category resources (Category Forecasts: Environment, Sector, IC/FC; Merchandising Principles)
• Support Category Strategic Projects (e.g., Aisle of the Future)
• Support change management and process improvements within the ABP framework

Key requirements

• Experience managing projects and driving change
• Strong organizational, networking and influencing skills
• Exposure to working in an agile environment
• Quick to learn new systems and software
• Demonstrated passion, proactive ownership and resilience for growing the category
• Ability to influence and take people on the journey

• influence and stakeholder management
• cross-functional collaboration
• adaptability and resilience
• ABP framework
• reporting tools and analytics
• automation of category processes

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