Senior Category Manager - Food (M/F/D)

Stellenbeschreibung:

We are seeking a strategic and commercially astute Senior Category Manager to lead the meat category for a key client within the retail sector. This is a high-impact role responsible for driving category performance, supplier relationships, and innovation across fresh and processed meat lines. The ideal candidate will bring deep meat purchasing experience , strong negotiation skills, and a passion for delivering customer value through quality and efficiency. This position can be based in Düsseldorf OR Hamburg .

Responsibilities

Develop and execute the category strategy for meat, aligned with business objectives and customer needs.
Lead sourcing and procurement activities, ensuring optimal cost, quality, and supply continuity.
Manage supplier relationships, including contract negotiations, performance reviews, and strategic partnerships.
Monitor market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to identify growth opportunities.
Collaborate cross-functionally with merchandising, supply chain, quality assurance, and marketing teams.
Drive sustainability and compliance initiatives within the meat category.
Deliver on key KPIs including margin improvement, availability, and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

Minimum 5 years experience in meat purchasing , ideally within the retail or FMCG sector.
Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
Fluent in German & English (written and spoken) - essential .
Excellent stakeholder management and communication abilities.
Analytic mindset with proficiency in category performance analysis and forecasting.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Willingness to travel