Job Description
Circle K Ireland is seeking an experienced and results-driven Senior Manager, for its Food & Food Partnership Category, to lead the execution of our food strategy across Food, Bakery, Food2Go, and branded food concepts.
This role is pivotal in delivering innovation, sales growth, and customer satisfaction through effective category leadership and development.
Reporting to the Market Development Director, this role is 5 days on-site at Circle K Support Office, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4. This is a full time, permanent position.
At Circle K Ireland, you'll join an energetic, inclusive and go-get-it team where innovation and customer focus drives everything we do. We empower our people to grow, lead, and make a real impact every day. Be part of something special that's shaping the future of convenience retail and supporting communities nationwide.
Key Responsibilities
Full end-to-end ownership of the Food Category P&L, delivering growth in sales, margin, units, traffic, and market share.
Lead the development and execution of local food category strategies and tactics aligned with business unit priorities.
Drive innovation and new product development (NPD) to enhance the customer journey and deliver a compelling Food2Go and Bakery offer.
Manage a team of two, providing leadership, mentoring, and coaching to drive engagement, performance, and development.
Implement effective category management practices across the 5Ps (Product, Price, Promotion, Placement, People).
Conduct regular range reviews, planogram development, and oversee sourcing and supply chain alignment.
Collaborate with central and local suppliers, support procurement activities, and manage local contract negotiations including JBP billing.
Translate consumer insights and market intelligence into actionable plans that strengthen Circle K's position as a first-mover in food innovation.
Support the adoption and execution of annual EU and BU-level marketing, loyalty and category plans, ensuring stakeholder alignment and timely delivery.
Partner with cross-functional teams and branded food providers to deliver best-in-class food concepts and customer experiences.
What We’re Looking For
7+ years’ experience in category management, buying, or a similar strategic commercial role.
Proven experience in food service and deli/fresh food operations.
Demonstrated success in concept development, innovation, and “first mover” executions.
Proven leadership and people management skills, with the confidence and ability to effectively influence and align cross-functional teams around a shared food strategy.
Solid experience in working with third-party branded food offers is essential.
Expertise in interpreting and applying consumer insights, brand positioning, and product development strategies.
Strong understanding of retail category management, performance tools, and methods.
Skilled in procurement, contract negotiation, and managing supplier relationships.
Knowledge of NPD, food regulations, quality control, supply chain, and HSE standards.
Excellent communication and presentation skills with experience in pitching strategic growth plans to senior stakeholders.
