Category Manager

Category Manager

Location: Ballarat

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

About Us

Established in 1880, UFS Healthcare is a profit-for-purpose organisation and we've been a trusted healthcare provider for over 140 years. Our mutual ownership model allows us to reinvest profits into improving the lives of our members and the wider community.

This is your chance to join a values-driven organisation that empowers its employees, recognises their contributions, and drives positive change in the communities that we serve.

We're looking for a talented Category Manager to join our dynamic Merchandise Team and make a real impact on our members' experience and our business success.

The Opportunity

This is your chance to take ownership of designated over-the-counter (OTC) categories across our network. You'll be at the heart of our commercial operation - negotiating with suppliers, curating product ranges, and using data to drive decisions that directly impact sales performance and member satisfaction.

Working closely with our Head of Merchandise and the broader team, you'll have the autonomy to shape category strategies while being supported by a collaborative, high-performing culture.

What You'll Be Doing

• Negotiate like a pro: Secure the best pricing, trading terms and promotional deals with suppliers to maximise margins and deliver member value
• Be data-driven: Use sales analytics to build compelling category planograms and range plans that hit the mark across all market segments
• Manage the range: Keep stock flowing smoothly - from identifying winning products to removing underperformers and managing inventory levels
• Build partnerships: Develop strong relationships with suppliers and internal teams to unlock commercial opportunities and drive collaboration
• Support our stores: Provide merchandising guidance and support to store teams, helping them succeed
• Drive improvement: Contribute ideas for continuous improvement and help implement lean thinking across our operations

You'll have:

• Strong experience in multistore buying and category management (retail, pharmacy or FMCG background ideal)
• Excellent negotiation skills with a track record of securing commercial wins
• High level Excel skills and comfort working with data and reports
• Great communication and relationship-building abilities
• Strong numeracy and analytical mindset
• The ability to juggle multiple priorities and work autonomously in a team environment

Bonus points for:

• Experience with LS Retail or similar retail management systems
• Pharmacy industry knowledge
• Understanding of TGA advertising requirements

Why Join UFS?

• Make an impact: Your decisions directly influence our success and member experience
• Great culture: Join a team that genuinely values collaboration, care and continuous improvement
• Growth opportunities: We invest in our people's development and support your career progression
• Purpose-driven: Be part of an organisation that puts healthcare and community at the heart of everything we do
• Competitive package: Attractive salary and benefits

How to Apply

If you're got what it takes to drive category success across our network, we would love to hear from you For more information and to view our full position description , please head over to or click here.

Apply now with your resume and a brief cover letter telling us why you're the right fit for this role.

Please note: We are seeking direct applications only. Agency submissions will not be considered.

Don't delay - we'll be reviewing applications as they come in and will commence interviews once we have a suitable pool of candidates.

UFS is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

For more information, contact our People & Culture Team on or . Applications close Monday 1st December.