Category Development manager

Category Development Manager Location: Ashbourne | Hybrid | Reporting To: Head of FunctionRole OverviewCommercially driven Category Development Manager responsible for leading a portfolio of Prestige Beauty brand partners, delivering category growth, KPI performance, and strategic planning across the Irish retail landscape.Acts as the primary brand partner contact, driving Commercial Growth Plans, forecasting, trade spend optimisation, and cross-functional execution to achieve sustainable sales and margin growth.Key ResponsibilitiesCategory Growth & PlanningDevelop and deliver annual Commercial Growth Plans (CGPs)Set, track, and review KPIs (sales, margin, market share, distribution)Lead business reviews, growth workshops, and store visitsTrade Spend & Commercial PerformanceManage and optimise trade spend to maximise ROIEvaluate promotional performance and investment effectivenessRange, Pricing & Category StrategyLead range reviews, assortment planning, and price pack architecture (PPA)Implement SKU rationalisation and pricing strategies to drive profitabilityRetailer Engagement & ExecutionSupport sell-in of category initiatives with retailersEnsure clear communication and execution across commercial and field teamsForecasting & Demand PlanningLead monthly forecast reviews with Demand Planning and customersManage forecast accuracy, stock levels, and inventory performanceApply learnings from base and promotional performanceNPD & Performance ManagementOversee NPD tracking, launches, and performance reviewsCoordinate supply chain alignment and product lifecycle executionKey AccountabilitiesDelivery of sales, margin, and category growth targetsAchievement of KPI and trade spend ROI targetsImproved forecast accuracy and inventory controlStrong brand partner and retailer relationshipsSuccessful execution of growth plans and NPD launcheskills & Experience7+ years in Category, Sales, Buying, or Brand Management (Beauty/FMCG)Strong knowledge of Irish grocery & beauty retail sectorProven success in commercial planning, forecasting, and trade spend managementStrong analytical, financial, and Excel skillsExcellent stakeholder management and influencing abilityDesirable: Prestige beauty experience, category management principles, NPD exposureCore CompetenciesCategory Strategy | Trade Spend | Forecasting | Data Analysis | Stakeholder Management | Commercial Acumen | Planning & ExecutionIdeal CandidateA strategic, data-driven category professional who excels at driving growth, managing brand partnerships, and delivering commercial results in a fast-paced beauty or FMCG environment.