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Home Jobs Nairobi Strategic Category Development Manager

Strategic Category Development Manager

Mini Group  · Manufacturing / Production / FMCG

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 29 May 2026
Posted May 23, 2026

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Commercial Manager, the Category Manager – DPH will spearhead the formulation and implementation of category strategies, cultivate key retail partnerships, maximize category profitability, and oversee commercial execution for the DPH category. As the primary commercial liaison for the category, this role will ensure consistent performance monitoring and strategic alignment across all designated accounts and distribution channels.

Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of responsibilities to ensure operational excellence, including managing daily workflows, coordinating team efforts, and maintaining high standards of performance. Collaborate with cross-functional departments to align goals, streamline processes, and drive efficiency across all projects. Develop and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity, foster innovation, and achieve organizational objectives. Monitor key performance indicators to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions as needed. Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and best practices to uphold quality, safety, and ethical standards. Provide leadership through clear communication, mentorship, and professional development opportunities to empower team members and maximize their potential.

We are seeking a seasoned professional to oversee our category strategy and portfolio management initiatives. This role requires a strategic thinker with a proven track record in developing and executing plans to optimize product categories, drive growth, and enhance profitability. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of market trends, and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally to align business objectives. Responsibilities include analyzing market data, identifying opportunities, managing product portfolios, and ensuring alignment with overall business strategies. Candidates must have experience in category management, portfolio analysis, and strategic planning, along with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. A background in business, finance, or a related field is preferred, and proficiency with data analysis tools is essential.

Create and implement comprehensive annual plans for product categories, encompassing assortment optimization, pricing strategies, promotional scheduling, and distribution objectives.

Analyze SKU performance metrics to identify trends and opportunities, then propose strategic adjustments to the product portfolio to enhance sales and profitability.

To assess market trends, evaluate competitor actions, and examine consumer behavior in order to uncover potential areas for growth.

Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to support demand forecasting and supply alignment initiatives.

We are seeking an experienced professional to oversee and nurture our key client relationships, ensuring their satisfaction and long-term engagement. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing strategic account plans, identifying growth opportunities, and maintaining strong communication channels with high-value clients. This role demands a proven track record in account management, exceptional interpersonal skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments to meet client needs and company objectives. Proficiency in CRM tools, data analysis, and negotiation is essential, along with a deep understanding of market trends and competitive positioning.

Develop and nurture key commercial partnerships with prominent retail organizations, such as supermarkets and strategic retail chains.

We are responsible for executing monthly business reviews to evaluate category performance, analyze promotional effectiveness, and identify potential distribution opportunities.

Negotiate terms such as pricing structures, product listings, rebates, promotional support contributions, and shelf-space allocations to optimize mutually beneficial agreements.

Accelerate category growth by driving new listings, expanding product ranges, and identifying promotional opportunities.

Monitor account performance metrics and collaborate with field teams to implement necessary corrective measures.

Experienced and results-driven individuals are sought to oversee sales operations and drive team performance. This role involves setting strategic direction, fostering a high-performance culture, and ensuring execution of sales plans to meet revenue targets. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership, analytical skills, and a proven track record in sales management, with the ability to motivate teams and optimize processes for sustained growth. Responsibilities include developing sales strategies, monitoring KPIs, coaching team members, and collaborating with cross-functional departments to enhance overall sales effectiveness.

Direct oversight and management of Sales Team Leads within the DPH category are responsibilities of this role.

Establish quarterly sales and performance targets and oversee periodic evaluations to assess progress and outcomes.

Collaborate cross-functionally with internal stakeholders to synchronize category strategies, execution plans, and promotional launch initiatives.

We are seeking a candidate with strong expertise in financial oversight and commercial accountability to ensure fiscal integrity and strategic alignment across all business operations. This role demands meticulous attention to financial details, including budget management, expenditure tracking, and compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, the successful applicant will be responsible for analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and providing data-driven recommendations to senior leadership. Proficiency in financial reporting, risk assessment, and audit readiness is essential, along with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to drive sustainable growth and profitability.

Prepare comprehensive monthly reports that analyze and present category performance metrics, including sales figures, gross margins, and variance analysis to identify key trends and discrepancies.

Ensure adherence to established pricing structures, rebates, and commercial arrangements as approved by management.

Ensure rigorous commercial discipline through close collaboration with Finance and Procurement teams.

Market intelligence and reporting professionals collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide actionable insights into industry trends, competitive landscapes, and market dynamics. They develop comprehensive reports and presentations to support strategic decision-making across various business functions, ensuring stakeholders remain informed and aligned with organizational objectives. Additionally, they monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), track competitor activities, and assess emerging opportunities or threats to guide proactive business strategies. Proficiency in data visualization tools, advanced analytical techniques, and strong communication skills are essential for effectively conveying complex findings to diverse audiences. Experience in market research methodologies, business intelligence platforms, and industry-specific knowledge further enhances their ability to deliver high-impact deliverables.

Analyze competitor pricing strategies, promotional efforts, SKU performance, and evolving market trends to inform strategic decision-making.

Craft comprehensive quarterly market intelligence reports and strategic recommendation documents.

Monitor competitor product launches to assess potential risks and uncover new opportunities in the category.

We seek a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Information Technology, along with at least 3–5 years of hands-on experience in a similar role. Proficiency in project management methodologies, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and excellent communication abilities are essential. Familiarity with industry-standard software and tools is required, and prior leadership experience is preferred. The ideal applicant will demonstrate a track record of delivering successful projects on time and within budget.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or a related discipline is required.

An MBA or a comparable Master’s qualification is highly desirable.

Professional certification in fields such as Sales, Marketing, Trade Marketing, or Category Management would be beneficial.

Requires a minimum of five to seven years of hands-on experience within fast-moving consumer goods, pharmaceutical, personal care, or wholesale distribution sectors.

Demonstrated expertise in category management, key account management, or trade marketing is required.

Accomplished professionals with substantial experience in contemporary retail chains and diversified multi-account commercial settings will thrive in this role.

Proven track record in directing sales teams and overseeing commercial strategies and operations is essential.

Proficient problem-solving abilities, strong interpersonal communication, and meticulous attention to detail are essential for this role. Candidates must demonstrate adaptability in dynamic environments, possess solid organizational skills, and exhibit proficiency in relevant software applications. The ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams, prioritize tasks efficiently, and maintain a proactive approach to challenges is crucial. Prior experience in [specific industry/field] and a track record of delivering high-quality outcomes are highly desirable. Additionally, a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is expected.

Possesses robust commercial and financial expertise, adept at driving revenue expansion and enhancing margin profitability.

Proven expertise in negotiation and key account management, characterized by exceptional strategic insight and relationship-building capabilities.

Possesses exceptional skills in analysis and strategic planning.

Strong leadership capabilities, adept stakeholder engagement, and exceptional communication prowess are essential for this role.

Proven proficiency in reporting, strategic planning, and performance management is essential.

Thrives effectively in high-pressure, goal-oriented FMCG settings with a dynamic pace.

Possesses robust market intelligence and competitor analysis skills.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate

Experience Required

5 - 7 years

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