Category Manager - Apple

About us

We are The Very Group and we’re here to help families get more out of life. We know that our customers work hard for their families and have a lot to balance in their busy lives. That’s why we combine amazing brands and products with flexible payment options on Very.co.uk to help them say yes to the things they love. We’re just as passionate about helping our people get more out of life too; building careers with real growth, a sense of purpose, belonging and wellbeing.

About the role

Alongside working with one of our biggest brand partners, Apple, the Category Manager is responsible for the strategic planning, development, and execution of category plans and initiatives within the organisation. This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, our customer needs, and competitive landscape to drive profitable growth and achieve financial targets. The Category Manager will develop and implement category strategies and will manage the profit and loss of the category. 

Importantly, you’ll also be responsible for leading, supporting and helping develop a high performing team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement category strategies aligned with the overall business objectives, considering market trends, customer insights, and competitive analysis. 

• Category Development: drive the development and execution of product assortment, pricing strategies, and promotional activities to maximise sales and profitability. 

• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiate favourable terms and conditions, and ensure the availability of high-quality products at competitive prices. 

• Financial Analysis: Assist in analysing financial data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost optimization within assigned categories. 

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with various internal stakeholders, including marketing, sales, operations, and finance, to ensure alignment and effective execution of category strategies. 

• Market Analysis: Conduct regular market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and competitive threats. Use this information to inform category strategies and drive innovation. 

• Performance Monitoring: establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track the performance of assigned categories. Regularly review and analyse data to identify areas for improvement and support in taking corrective actions as needed. 

• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks and challenges that may impact category performance, such as supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, or shifts in customer demand. 

• Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the category management function, leveraging technology and best practices to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. 

About you

• Solution and delivery focused - a decision maker who can work under pressure, obsess over the customer, and make the right choices to benefit their experience. 

• Demonstrates strategic thinking & strong commercial acumen. 

• Creative, passionate and innovative. 

• Positive, driven and brings energy to the role. 

• Product lifecycle experience in a multiple retail/Multi-Channel business with significant online presence – or experience that could be transferrable to our business and industry. 

Some of our benefits

• Flexible, hybrid working model
• Inclusive culture and environment, check out our Glassdoor reviews
• £1000 flexible benefits allowance to suit your needs
• 30 days holiday + bank holidays
• Udemy learning access
• Bonus potential (performance and business-related)
• Up to 25% discount on Very.co.uk

• Matched pension up to 6%
• More benefits can be found on our career site

How to apply

Please note that the talent acquisition team are managing this vacancy directly, and if successful in securing this role, you may be required to undertake a credit, CIFAS and DBS check.

What happens next?

Our talent acquisition team will be in touch if you’re successful so keep an eye on your emails! We’ll arrange a short call to learn more about you, as well as answer any questions you have. If it feels like we’re a good match, we’ll share your CV with the hiring manager to review. Our interview process is tailored to each role and can be in-person or held remotely.

You can expect a two-stage interview process for this position:

1st stage - An informal 30-minute video call with the hiring team to discuss your skills and relevant experience. This is a great opportunity to find out more about the role and to ask any questions you may have.

2nd Stage – A one-hour formal interview where you can expect both competency and technical questions.

As an inclusive employer please do let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments.

If you'd like to know more about our interviews, you can find out here.

Equal opportunities

We’re an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.