Senior Category Manager

I'm currently recruiting on behalf of a successful specialist retailer committed to delivering great products, exceptional value, and a best-in-class service. They are looking for an experienced Senior Buying Manager or Senior Category Manager to lead category strategy, build compelling product ranges, and drive commercial performance.

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially minded professional who combines strong market insight with excellent supplier management and a passion for delivering products customers love.

The Role

You will be responsible for developing and executing category strategies that maximise sales, margin, and market share across a broad product portfolio. You will lead the category management process end-to-end — from range planning and supplier negotiations to pricing, promotions, and performance analysis.

Leading a team you will also work cross functionally working harmoniously with the wider business and will ensure product offer remains competitive, relevant, and aligned with customer demand.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Range Planning

• Develop and deliver category strategies that support business growth and commercial objectives
• Build customer-focused product ranges across general merchandise categories
• Identify market trends, competitor activity, and emerging opportunities
• Optimise product assortment to drive sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and brand partners
• Lead commercial negotiations on cost prices, trading terms, and promotional support
• Source new suppliers and products that strengthen category performance
• Ensure suppliers consistently deliver against quality, service, and compliance standards

Commercial Performance

• Own category performance across sales, margin, stock turn, and sell-through
• Use trading data and market insights to identify opportunities and risks
• Develop pricing and promotional strategies to maximise profitability
• Monitor product lifecycle and take action to manage slow-moving inventory

Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop junior members of the team
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative team culture
• Drive continuous improvement in buying processes and decision-making

What They are Looking For

• Significant experience in buying or category management
• Proven track record of delivering sales growth and margin improvement
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Excellent commercial and analytical capability with confidence using data to inform decisions
• Strong understanding of market trends, customer behaviour, and retail dynamics
• Excellent planning, organisation, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-driven environment