Head of Category; m​/f​/d

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We're looking for doers! Shape your future and the future of Kloepfel Consulting GmbH and become part of our team. We are looking for a Head of Category (m/f/d).

Under the umbrella of the Kloepfel Group, specialised companies for cost reduction and process optimisation for medium-sized businesses are formed. The group covers all needs, from process and cost optimisation, digitalisation, outsourcing, product cost calculation, supplier management and global sourcing, qualification, to recruitment and interim management.

The quality of the individual companies’ performance is highlighted by numerous awards. This year alone, three companies from the Kloepfel Group were awarded the “Beste Berater” (Best Consultants) quality label by Brand eins. In total, the group employs more than 300 subject matter specialists at 12 locations, including 5 in the DACH region. We have been part of the international EPSA Group since 2021.

• The development and implementation of a clear, data-driven category strategy is central to this position.
• Full responsibility for category performance includes responsibility for sales and margin targets, as well as all assortment decisions.
• Strategic negotiations and the management of partnerships with international OEMs and key suppliers are among the core responsibilities.
• The promotion of innovations and the expansion of the product range strengthen the opportunities for own brands and the maturity of the category.
• Professional lifecycle management ensures optimised product availability while simultaneously reducing slow-moving stock and overstock.
• The leadership, coaching, and development of a high-performing team of category managers and buyers are a core leadership responsibility.
• Close collaboration with Sales, Marketing, and Supply Chain ensures that category plans align with regional market requirements.

• A Master's degree or equivalent qualification forms the professional basis for this position.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in commercial leadership roles within Category Management or Product Management is required.
• A strong background in B2B, industrial, or agricultural environments is crucial for success.
• Proven experience in negotiating large supplier contracts and establishing OEM partnerships is mandatory.
• Analytical and structured thinking enables complex strategies to be translated into concrete results.
• Inspiring communication skills are necessary to engage stakeholders in an international matrix organisation.
• Fluent English is required; additional knowledge of Dutch or German would be an advantage.
• A willingness to spend two to three days per week at the headquarters in Varsseveld and to travel within Europe is expected.

• This leadership role combines the agility of a family-run business with the scale of a European market leader.
• The competitive salary package includes a profit share of approximately 8 %.
• Financial benefits include a company pension scheme and either a company car or a mobility allowance.
• Modern working conditions allow for flexible home working options, including appropriate support.
• Personal development is supported by a dedicated budget for continuous further education and training.
• The company culture is strongly influenced by the values Collaboration, responsibility and care
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