Category Commercial Manager - Natural Colors (United States)

The Category Commercial Manager for Natural Colors will be responsible for driving the growth of the natural colorants category within the food and beverage industry. The role focuses on expanding market share, building strategic customer relationships, and collaborating cross-functionally to deliver innovative, natural color solutions. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in ingredient sales or category management, with specific experience in natural food colors or plant-based extracts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Category Leadership: Define and execute the commercial strategy for natural colors, including pricing, positioning, and market penetration plans .
• Sales Development: Lead direct sales efforts and support the sales team in closing key deals with food and beverage customers globally.
• Business Development: Identify new market opportunities and applications for natural colors; build partnerships with key accounts and industry players.
• Technical & Application Support: Work closely with R&D, technical sales, and application labs to provide customers with color solutions that meet their visual and regulatory requirements.
• Market & Trend Analysis: Monitor market trends, regulatory updates, and competitive landscape to adjust strategy and maintain category leadership.
• Product Portfolio Management: Collaborate with procurement, innovation, and marketing to manage the natural color portfolio, including lifecycle management and pipeline development.
• Customer Relationship Management: Build long-term relationships with clients, offering training, product demonstrations, and tailored support.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work with supply chain, production, marketing, and quality teams to ensure seamless customer experience.
• Sales & Category Reporting: Provide regular updates on category performance, pipeline, forecasts, and competitive insights to senior management.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Education : Bachelor’s degree in food science, Business, Marketing, or related field.
• Experience : 5+ years of experience in sales of natural colors.
• Technical Knowledge : Strong understanding of the functionalities, applications, and regulatory considerations of natural colors in food and beverage formulations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Strong customer service orientation and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Travel : Willingness to travel to client sites, trade shows, and conferences as needed.