Fruit Category Manager

Indian Ocean Export Company Cape Town, South Africa 03 July 2026 Senior Full Time Market Related On-site 5 - 8 years Skills Ability to Meet Deadlines Adaptability Buying Client Relations Negotiation of deals Selling energy Industries Import/Export Logistics Shipping

Job Description We are seeking an experienced, commercial Category Manager for Fruit. Requires a strong background in fresh fruit procurement, category management, and/or international fruit trading. The successful candidate will have proven expertise in sourcing, supply chain management, supplier negotiations, and driving profitability within the fresh produce industry.

Essential Experience:

• 5–8+ years' experience in Category Management, Procurement, Commercial Management, or International Trading within fresh fruit or fresh produce.
• Strong understanding of international fruit sourcing, import/export processes, and perishable supply chains.
• Experience negotiating with local and international growers, exporters, and suppliers.
• Proven ability to manage seasonal procurement, pricing strategies, and inventory planning.
• Strong commercial acumen with responsibility for P&L, margins, and category performance.
• Experience managing supplier claims, quality issues, and product recoveries.
• Ability to analyze market trends, pricing, and competitor activity to drive business growth.
• Experience leading or supporting regional sales teams across multiple countries would be advantageous.

Technical Knowledge:

• Fresh fruit supply chains and cold chain logistics.
• Import/export documentation and regulatory requirements.
• Procurement and inventory management systems.
• Pricing, forecasting, and demand planning.
• Quality assurance and claims management.

Key Competencies:

• Commercially driven with strong negotiation skills.
• Excellent analytical and financial acumen.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to build long-term supplier relationships.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, international trading environment.
• People management

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.
• 5– 8years of experience in category management, procurement, sales management, or a similar role (preferably in fresh produce).
• Experience managing cross-regional teams is advantageous.
• Knowledge of import/export regulations and perishable goods handling.

This role is best suited to someone who has hands-on experience trading fresh fruit internationally, understands the commercial risks associated with perishable products, and can balance supplier relationships, procurement, sales performance, quality, and profitability across multiple regions.