Category Development Specialist

Overview

We are looking for an analytical, commercially-driven Category Development Specialist to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will work closely with the Customer Development Manager to drive category growth and maximize brand visibility. You will be responsible for translating consumer data into actionable strategies and leading customer activation initiatives that engage shoppers at the point of sale.

Main Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and evaluate tailor-made shopper activation programs and trade marketing activities for key retail accounts.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and shopper behavior using retail panels (e.g. NielsenIQ) and internal sales data.
• Support the optimization of product assortments and create data-driven National & Tailor-made planograms to ensure maximum shelf impact.
• Prepare business reviews, category growth stories, and presentations for key retail partners.
• Track the performance and ROI of promotional activities, recommending adjustments to maximize volume and profitability.
• Monitor trade marketing budgets and evaluate campaign ROI to optimize commercial spend
• Work closely with sales & marketing teams to recognize sales opportunities and maximize Brands impact in the POS
• Brief agencies to develop and implement ideas that support shopper and marketing initiatives (e.g. displays, POS) utilizing customers’ tools
• Maintain and update monthly category KPIs, dashboards, and promotional calendars.

Skills & Experience

• University degree in Marketing / Finance / Business Administration.
• MBA or MSc in Marketing will be highly appreciated.
• 1-2 years of experience in a large FMCG company in Trade Marketing.
• Excellent command of the English language.
• PC literate.

Competencies

• Commercial thinking.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with aptitude in negotiating and building relationships with internal & external stakeholders.
• Analytical, problem handling and solving skills.
• Flexibility and sustains performance under pressure.