Head of Category Lead

19 hours ago

Aston, United Kingdom Iceland Food Group Full time
Job Title: Head of Category Lead

Job Summary:
As a Head of Category Lead at Iceland Food Group, you will be responsible for leading cross-functional teams and building long-term supplier relationships to deliver high plans through value and innovation-focused category strategies. You will be responsible for the largest and/or most complex categories within the business, driving profitable sales growth, and delivering strategic category plans through the templated Range Review process.

Key Responsibilities:
• Drive profitable sales growth
• Responsible for the largest and/or most complex categories within the business
• Deliver strategic category plans through the templated Range Review process
• Negotiate lower costs through full use of OL costing sheets, full use of the grey team, tear downs, and GAP-led supplier negotiations
• Lead negotiations on behalf of the wider team with key suppliers/brands that are cross-category or require additional experience to manage
• Utilization of Plan B suppliers to create necessary tension (via tender) and improve Trading Manager knowledge
• Delivery of accurate financial forecast on time to the Trading Director
• Weekly reporting of accurate sales and profitability information to the Trading Director
• Deliver the High Plan commercial budget covering sales and e2e profitability

Innovation:
• Wholesale management of the NPD process and progress for the Trading Director
• Coordination of seasonal events across the wider team, including price, promotion, and differentiation in-line with Trading Directors vision
• Full responsibility for organizing and delivering Range Reviews, including strategic category proposals (TD Head of Development and MD present at a minimum)
• Identification of key points of difference and innovation that enable a market-leading product range, complimented with exclusivity agreements surrounding the supply base and/or concepts
• Delivery of all agreed actions through the range review process (signed off in line with NPD Gate Process)
• Full responsibility for transposing range plans and actions into merchandising planograms (via specified in-direct merchandising report)

Food Safety & Quality:
• Full responsibility for product quality and food safety end-to-end, managed and delivered via a designated Food Technologist
• Ensuring key KPIs are met surrounding customer complaints and quality (e.g., CPMUs, 1 Stars)
• Responsible for organizing, leading, and diarizing Ice-Checks via specified Technologist with subsequent proactive management of issues
• Compulsory attendance to 1 Star Reviews and lead
• Set and agree industry benchmark for all own-label products and operate quality enhancements around this
• Full responsibility for setting and agreeing detailed specifications via specified technologist that protect quality ongoing

Reduce Costs:
• Full responsibility for de-ranger and discontinued budget requiring weekly meetings to keep this to an absolute minimum
• Full responsibility for wastage budget and reduction and weekly management to optimize costs and margin
• Organization and running of relevant Disc & DR meetings for the Trading Director cross-functionally
• Adherence to all policies to ensure the smooth running of the department (e.g., tidy desk policy)
• Full responsibility for accuracy of administration meeting agreed administration error targets (e.g., PMAs)
• Coordinate tasks (unprompted)

Supplier Management:
• Building strong partnerships and relationships in order to drive strategic category plans and differentiation; ensuring decision-makers are the key point of contact (e.g., Commercial Director or equivalent)
• Honouring the GSCOP guidelines laid out by the government to protect Iceland's reputation as a brand
• Ensure all supply agreements and JBPs are sales-driven with 12-month rolling plans (cost + ORD only)
• Management of several ancillary responsibilities for the wider team that often require increased experience and complexity (e.g., Iceland Manufacturing, Tear Downs, Merchandising)
• Clear delegation of all administrative activities (excluding Forecasting) to the Trading Administration Team via specified Trading Assistant (in-direct report)
• Clear communication and delegation to dedicated Merchandiser to execute category plans
• Compulsory mini-team meetings to take place each week with key stakeholders. Led by the Trading Manager
• Responsibility for coaching and developing less experienced members of the team across a variety of trading activities (e.g., forecasting, negotiations, range reviews)

Requirements:
• Highly analytical and numerate
• Excellent communication skills
• Expert negotiation skills (supported by GAP training)
• Resilience and ability to work at pace
• Food knowledge, passion, and expertise
• Leadership cross-functionally and amongst peers
• Extensive buying experience

What We Offer:
• 15% discount in Iceland stores
• 30% discount at Club Individual Restaurants
• 33 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Pension (NEST)
• Free onsite parking
• Onsite electric car charging ports
• Subsidized staff restaurant and Costa Coffee
• Christmas vouchers
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Christmas Savings scheme
• Discounted dry cleaning
• Long service awards

  • Head of Retail Operations

    2 weeks ago

    Aston, Birmingham, United Kingdom Manesis Search & Selection Full time

    Job Title: Head of RetailCompany:Our client is a leading supplier of high-quality assembly and fasteners products and services to industries such as construction, automotive, and more. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, they are dedicated to supporting their clients with the best solutions in the market.The retail...

  • Head of Retail Operations

    2 weeks ago

    Aston, Birmingham, United Kingdom Manesis Search & Selection Full time

    Job Title: Head of RetailCompany:Our client is a leading supplier of high-quality assembly and fasteners products and services to industries such as construction, automotive, and more. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, they are dedicated to supporting their clients with the best solutions in the market.The retail...

  • Head Chef

    1 month ago

    Aston Clinton, United Kingdom Premium Country Pubs Full time

    As Head Chef at the Woolpack you'll lead the way in creating a kitchen to be proud of. You'll be inspiring your team, instilling the passion that ensures all the food that leaves the kitchen is of the highest standard. Managing all areas of the kitchen, you'll keep our guests coming back for more Join us at Premium Country Pubs click apply for full job...

  • Commercial Finance Business Partner

    18 hours ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Iceland Food Group Full time

    Commercial Finance Business PartnerAt Iceland Food Group, we're looking for a talented Commercial Finance Business Partner to join our team. As a key member of our Commercial Finance team, you'll play a crucial role in supporting our Trading Teams with clear and insightful financial information.Key Responsibilities:• Present category sales and margin...

  • Head Chef

    2 weeks ago

    Little Aston, United Kingdom CV-Library Full time

    Head Chef Job near Sutton Coldfield Are you passionate about culinary excellence? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, energetic kitchen? We’re looking for a Head Chef to lead a talented team at a highly regarded fresh food gastro pub in a stunning location. As Head Chef, you'll inspire, mentor, and motivate your kitchen team, ensuring high food...

  • Head Chef

    4 weeks ago

    Aston-on-Trent, United Kingdom Bupa Full time

    Job Description: Head Chef Richmond Villages Aston on Trent, Richmond Drive, DE72 2EA Circa £40,000pa - Plus Excellent Benefits £1000 - Welcome Bonus! Richmond Village in Aston on Trent is looking to appoint a Head Chef. This luxury retirement village is a unique blend of culinary skill and lifestyle balance. With no late nights or split...

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Main Purpose of the RoleTo oversee and lead statutory reviews for children in care, child protection conferences, and child in need meetings, ensuring the highest standards of planning and support.Key ResponsibilitiesTo rigorously monitor, assess, and review the quality and effectiveness of the local authority's assessments, planning, and support for...

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    1 month ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Main Purpose of the RoleTo oversee and lead statutory reviews for children in care, child protection conferences, and child in need meetings, ensuring the highest standards of planning and support.Key ResponsibilitiesTo rigorously monitor, assess, and review the quality and effectiveness of the local authority's assessments, planning, and support for...

  • Procurement Specialist for Mechanical Projects

    23 hours ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the Role:We are seeking a skilled Procurement Specialist for Mechanical Projects to join our team at Proman Recruitment. As a key member of our procurement team, you will be responsible for end-to-end procurement, including tendering, sourcing, and supplier / contract management.Key Responsibilities:• Identify and implement measures to reduce the...

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    1 month ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Main Purpose of the RoleTo oversee and direct statutory reviews for children in care, child protection conferences, and child in need meetings. To critically assess and scrutinize the quality and effectiveness of the local authority's planning and support for children in care, those subject to child protection plans, and children in need on an ongoing basis....

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    1 month ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Main Purpose of the RoleTo oversee and direct statutory reviews for children in care, child protection conferences, and child in need meetings. To critically assess and scrutinize the quality and effectiveness of the local authority's planning and support for children in care, those subject to child protection plans, and children in need on an ongoing basis....

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    2 weeks ago

    Aston, Birmingham, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a highly skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory. As a key member of the project team, you will be responsible for end-to-end procurement, including tendering, sourcing, and supplier/contract management.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify and implement measures to reduce the...

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    2 weeks ago

    Aston, Birmingham, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a highly skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory. As a key member of the project team, you will be responsible for end-to-end procurement, including tendering, sourcing, and supplier/contract management.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify and implement measures to reduce the...

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    2 months ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Job DescriptionJob Title: Independent Reviewing Manager - Child Protection SpecialistJob Summary:Connect2Halton is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Independent Reviewing Manager to join our team. As an Independent Reviewing Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring the welfare and best interests of children in care are prioritized.Key...

  • Independent Reviewing Manager

    2 months ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Connect2Halton Full time

    Job DescriptionJob Title: Independent Reviewing Manager - Child Protection SpecialistJob Summary:Connect2Halton is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Independent Reviewing Manager to join our team. As an Independent Reviewing Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring the welfare and best interests of children in care are prioritized.Key...

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory.About the CompanyProman has been a leading MEP contracting company since 1986, delivering a wide range of services to customers worldwide. With over 35 years of experience, they have completed over 200 projects across three...

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory.About the CompanyProman has been a leading MEP contracting company since 1986, delivering a wide range of services to customers worldwide. With over 35 years of experience, they have completed over 200 projects across three...

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory.About the CompanyProman has been a leading MEP contracting company since 1986, delivering a wide range of services to customers worldwide. With over 35 years of experience, they have completed over 200 projects across three...

  • Mechanical Procurement Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, Birmingham, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a skilled Mechanical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory. As a key member of the project, you will be responsible for end-to-end procurement, including tendering, sourcing, and supplier management.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify and implement measures to reduce the Total Cost of Ownership...

  • Electrical Procurement Specialist

    4 weeks ago

    Aston, United Kingdom Proman Full time

    About the RoleProman Recruitment is seeking a skilled Electrical Procurement Engineer to join their team in Shutton Mill Factory.About the CompanyProman has been a leading MEP contracting company since 1986, delivering a wide range of services to customers worldwide. With over 35 years of experience, they have completed over 200 projects across three...