Assistant Category Manager | Kitchens

We are looking for an Assistant Category Manager to join our Commercial Department. The position will support the Kitchens category in delivering a market-leading range of products, enabling growth and profitability while providing a value-added service to the Depots. It is a permanent position based in our Raunds’ office in Northamptonshire.

As an Assistant Category Manager, you will take on budget responsibility for a small category of products under the oversight of the Senior Category Manager while continuing to support the overall category from a day-to-day running perspective. This will be the first role in the Commercial structure with a budget.

What will you be doing as an Assistant Category Manager:

• Support the Category by delivering a market-leading product range, taking full ownership of a defined portfolio of products and suppliers. Manage the process to drive growth and profitability, while providing a value-added service to the Depots.
• Developing and managing a sub-category strategy and plan which delivers profitable market share growth for the business.
• Answering Depot calls and queries whilst creating and communicating product information to Depots that is appropriate and fit for purpose.
• Understanding the needs of the builder, end-user, and depot, becoming a category expert.
• Managing product ranges in line with the business commercial planning cycle.
• Ensuring strong commercial relationships between Howdens, the category supply base, and internal stakeholders.
• Preparing information for key internal and external meetings.
• Developing an understanding of the external market, including market trends, environment, and performance against competitors. Conducting price benchmarking and providing recommendations to the Senior Category Manager.
• Providing all the data including collation and analysis of reports.
• Working closely with the Marketing team, conducting proofing of any marketing materials
• Maintaining and updating purchasing data.
• Achieving lowest total cost of goods through a category sourcing strategy which includes challenging negotiations, identification of the most effective sourcing routes and strong supplier management.

What do you need to qualify for this Assistant Category Manager role:

• Demonstrable Category Assistant Experience
• A Level, Level 3 qualification, or equivalent
• Product and lifecycle management
• Data management and analysis
• Supplier and Stakeholder Relationship Management
• Negotiation Skills and Pricing, and Promotional Strategies
• Ability to work at pace and manage priorities
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Commercial acumen
• Strong decision-making skills

What can we offer you as a Category Assistant Manager:

• Competitive salary and annual company bonus
• Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays 
• Staff Discount
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional Reward and Recognition events

How to Apply:

Grade | 5

Hiring Manager | Sam Birch

Good luck with your application. Before you apply, please speak to your manager, so that they are aware of your interest in this role. You will also need to attach a CV as part of your application. Please take note that this advert is a summary of the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change. If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact the Hiring Manager or the Recruitment Team.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.