Category Manager – Pastry
Location: North West London – Hybrid
Salary: c.£65,000 + Car Allowance + Performance Bonus
The Opportunity
On behalf of one of the UK’s most prestigious purveyors of fine foods, we are seeking a commercially astute Category Manager to lead their Pastry & Bakery division.
Our client is a world-class distributor, sourcing the highest quality ingredients—from artisan chocolates and rare vanillas to technical pastry essentials—for the country’s most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star hotels, and luxury retailers. This is a senior, hands-on role where culinary passion meets high-level commercial strategy.
The Role
As Category Manager, you will hold full P&L accountability for the Pastry category. You will act as the business’s subject-matter expert, ensuring the portfolio remains ahead of global trends while driving maximum profitability.
- Strategic Growth: Develop and execute the category plan, identifying opportunities to broaden or refine the range based on market movements and seasonal shifts.
- Supplier Diplomacy: Build and maintain high-level relationships with global artisan producers, negotiating costs, supply reliability, and service levels.
- Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of up to 3 direct reports, fostering a culture of proactivity and excellence.
- Cross-Functional Impact: Partner with Sales, Marketing, and Development Chefs to provide the technical product knowledge and commercial context needed to win in the market.
- Financial Rigour: Support margin performance through precise pricing strategies, demand planning, and stock management.
The Ideal Candidate
- At least 3+ years of management experience within food distribution, specifically possessing deep technical knowledge of the Pastry sector.
- You have an entrepreneurial mindset and aren't afraid to make data-driven, "uncomfortable" decisions to protect the company's interests.
- Strong analytical skills (Excel/ERP) and an eye for detail. Knowledge of UK P.O.A.O import regulations.
- A natural communicator who can influence internal leadership and negotiate effectively with international suppliers.