ASSISTANT CATEGORY MANAGER

Are you organised, commercially minded and ready to move beyond traditional administration? This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful and growing manufacturing business as an Assistant Category Manager , where you'll gain genuine exposure to procurement, suppliers, product development, pricing and commercial decision-making . Working alongside an experienced Category Management team, you'll play an important role in helping to manage products and suppliers from initial sourcing through to ongoing category development. It's a varied position where you'll be encouraged to learn, contribute ideas and take on more responsibility as your experience grows. If you're currently working in administration, purchasing, procurement, sales support or product administration and are looking for a role that offers a clear route into category management, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING You'll have the opportunity to get involved across a broad range of commercial and procurement activities, including: Supporting the Category Management team with supplier and product activity. Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers. Managing accurate product, supplier and pricing information. Supporting sourcing and purchasing activity. Assisting with pricing reviews, product updates and commercial analysis. Using Excel to analyse data and produce reports. Supporting new product development and category projects. Liaising with suppliers and internal teams to keep projects and actions moving. Monitoring competitor products, pricing and market information. Helping identify opportunities to improve costs, processes and supplier performance. Supporting the development and implementation of category plans. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR You don't need to have already worked as a Category Manager. We're looking for someone with drive, commercial curiosity and the ambition to develop . You could currently be working in: Administration or sales administration Purchasing or procurement Product administration Supply chain Customer service within a product-based business Manufacturing, retail or distribution What matters most is that you're organised, commercially aware and keen to learn . You'll also bring: Excellent attention to detail Strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills Good communication and relationship-building skills The ability to manage multiple priorities A proactive approach and willingness to take ownership Confidence communicating with suppliers and internal stakeholders An interest in products, purchasing and the commercial side of a business WHY JOIN? This isn't simply an administration role with a different job title. You'll gain hands-on exposure to category management, procurement, suppliers, product development, pricing and commercial strategy , working alongside an experienced team who can support your development. You'll have the opportunity to build valuable commercial experience and develop towards a more senior Category Management or Procurement career. THE PACKAGE Permanent position Competitive salary Established and successful manufacturing business Structured opportunity to develop your career Support and training from an experienced Category Management team Exposure to suppliers, products, purchasing and commercial strategy Varied role with increasing responsibility Stable and supportive working environment Abingdon, Oxfordshire READY TO MOVE YOUR CAREER FORWARD? If you're currently working in administration, purchasing, procurement, supply chain or a product-focused environment and want to develop into a commercially focused Category Management role , we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact MP Recruitment for more information. TPBN1_UKTJ