Junior Category Manager

About the role

We are seeking a Junior Category Manager to join a leading retail/FMCG client in Johannesburg. The role focuses on managing the bakery, fruit, veg and other perishables categories within the convenience market, driving growth and profitability.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies aligned with commercial objectives.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate terms and drive cost optimisation.
• Oversee product and concept development, including packaging innovations.
• Monitor and analyse performance across multiple retail outlets.
• Support training and rollout of new initiatives across sites.

Required profile

• 3+ years experience as a junior or intermediate category buyer in the convenience food retail space.
• Proven buying experience with bakery, fruit, veg or other perishables at a manufacturer level.
• Strong understanding of category management and commercial drivers.
• Experience working across multi‑site retail or food‑service environments.
• Exposure to concept development and product innovation; packaging experience is a plus.
• Relevant qualification is an added bonus.

Required skills