Category Development Leader – Convenience (Snacking) - fixed term for 18 months in Unterhaching

Job Description:

As the Category Development Leader – Convenience (fixed term for 18 months), you will drive the growth strategy for our iconic Snacking brands across high-impulse retail channels (petrol stations, kiosks, and smart stores). You will turn shopper insights and market data into actionable assortment, shelf, and checkout strategies—serving as a trusted category advisor to key retail partners in Germany.

Brands:

M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, TWIX®, EXTRA®, SKITTLES®

What would be your key responsibilities?

• Shopper Insights & Strategy: Analyze shopper behavior to create actionable growth plans, lead our Checkout Champion initiatives, and leverage AI-driven analytics to unlock new category insights.
• Customer Partnerships: Partner directly with leading Convenience retailers to co-create tailored growth strategies, positioning Mars as the go-to category expert.
• Assortment & Planograms: Develop channel-specific layout and space recommendations to optimize shopper navigation and maximize impulse buying.
• In-Store Execution ("Perfect Store"): Advise on Picture of Success (PICOF) standards for the Convenience sector to ensure flawless execution at the point of sale.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Connect Key Account Management and Brand/Portfolio teams to ensure category insights shape commercial discussions.

What are we looking for?

• Proven track record in Category Management / Category Development within FMCG
• Prior experience in Key Account Management or customer-facing commercial roles is a strong plus.
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in market data (e.g., NielsenIQ, scan data) with the ability to turn data into compelling business stories; eager to explore AI tools.
• Communication & Influence: Proven ability to build trusted relationships and influence both internal teams and external retail partners.
• Languages: Business fluency in both German and English (written and spoken).

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.